Mark – The Man Who Inspired Stronger Than Cancer | The Podcast
We’ve never met in person. We’ve only exchanged 33 messages. And yet, Mark has had one of the most profound impacts on my life.
Mark was given six months to live. That was eight years ago.
“I was given a pretty damning review of my situation nearly 8 years ago… told I had a year to live and to get my affairs in order. But through good luck and a view that I simply had no choice but to fight for my family, I kept going.”
His belief in psychology, positivity, and mindset as weapons in the fight against cancer is something we both share. If you can find a way to be happy, to stay hopeful, to live rather than just survive—then the journey, no matter how hard, becomes easier. That belief shaped his fight. And, without knowing it at the time, it became the foundation of why I started Stronger Than Cancer.
“It’s not what happens to us in life, it’s how we react that defines us.”
But here’s the thing about Mark—he didn’t just fight for himself. He fought for others. Even in his own battle, he gave his time and energy to support people like me. To remind me that stats don’t define us. That we are more than a prognosis. That we can beat the odds.
“If you believe there is hope, then I’m backing you to kick its ass and keep on rocking for years to come!”
Mark made changes to give himself the best possible shot. He overhauled his diet, cut out alcohol, and was strict with what he put into his body for years. But he also knew that living was just as important as fighting.
“For the first couple of years, I was very ‘on it.’ Mainly vegetarian, any meat was organic, kicked the booze (but took up weed) and added a number of supplements into my diet, things like turmeric. I’m still much healthier than I was prior to my diagnosis. But I also believe in living my life, so I’ve relaxed. I’ll eat what I want a couple of times a week and have the odd beer or glass of vino again.”
He never lost sight of balance. He did what he needed to fight but never forgot the joy of the little things.
“We only have one shot at this, and I’m going to enjoy my food—it’s one of life’s great joys!”
More than anything, Mark gave. Even while battling cancer himself, he made sure I never felt alone. He saw something in me—strength, resilience, and determination—even on the days I struggled to see it myself.
“Your response separates you from most people I speak to. Such positive energy and strength in your words, and I genuinely think if you can maintain this outlook, you’ll go on to smash it.”
“Mate, I keep rereading your texts, and I’m genuinely loving your attitude and approach. I feel a lot of similarities between us.”
“You’re an inspiration, fella. Keep it going, my man!”
Mark is now in palliative care. His body may not be able to fight anymore, but his spirit? Unshakable. He still sends messages of strength. He still lifts others up, even as he faces the scariest reality of all.
“My days are done. My body is no longer able to handle chemo, and I therefore no longer have a vehicle to manage the cancer. Sorry mate!”
But even after sharing that news, Mark’s next message?
“Oh, I’m still fighting my man, don’t you worry about that, and that won’t stop!”
He has a wife and two kids. And yet, instead of dwelling on fear, he’s making sure they feel love, laughter, and his unwavering strength every single day. That is who he is.
“I know life isn’t perfect, but I know I’ve lived a fucking good one. Perhaps more importantly, I have lived the life I wanted. I don’t wish for more. I simply appreciate what I have every day.”
Mark, you are an absolute legend. I hope you know the impact you’ve had. I hope you know how much your words have meant. Your fight, your mindset, and your kindness will live on through everyone you’ve touched—including me.
And as you would say…
Let’s Fkin Go 💙
