FAMILY SUPPORT: Cancer survivor Terry Betts with his son Harry Betts, 13, will take part in this weekend's Orange and District Relay for Life at Waratah Sportsground. Photo: JUDE KEOGH 0305betts2
A CANCER diagnosis is a shock for anyone, it leaves you reeling, confused and scared for what the future may hold.
Terry Betts was just like any other person when he was diagnosed with cancer in May 2006, and almost seven years later he has vowed to help others just like himself.
Mr Betts was diagnosed with throat cancer and had surgery three weeks later, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy in Sydney.
“If you knew what the treatment was going to do to you before, you’d think twice about doing it,” he said.
In the years since his diagnosis and treatment Mr Betts has become a Cancer Council NSW volunteer and is one of the committee members for this year’s Orange and District Relay for Life.
He said funds raised from the relay were vital to support people just like himself and his family.
The Cancer Information and Support Line on 13 11 20 is part of that support, with some funds from the relay helping to keep the service going.
“You want information because there’s so much uncertainty,” Mr Betts said.
“It’s not just for the sufferers and the family, but the extended family.
“A lot of people don’t want to ask you the questions.”
Almost seven years on from his cancer battle, Mr Betts is well, and looking forward to the survivors’ lap of honour at the Relay for Life on Saturday.
“It’s important to remind people there are lots of people that have had cancer and survived it,” he said.
“It’s a disease like any other, you can deal with it and continue to live a full and healthy life.”
nadine.morton@fairfaxmedia.com.au