Wheatbelt farmer, Gerard Hodges, has become the face of Cancer Council WA's 2025 Christmas Appeal after a shock skin cancer diagnosis turned his life upside down.
The fit and healthy farmer first noticed what looked like a simple graze on his hand during the 2022 harvest season.
"Bumps and grazes aren't unusual for farmers, so I shrugged it off," Gerard said. "But it just didn't heal. One bandage turned into three."
When the Royal Flying Doctor Service came through town, Gerard had it checked. What was first thought to be a minor basal cell carcinoma turned out to be Stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma-an aggressive form of skin cancer that had already spread to his kidney and liver.
Within days, Gerard was in Perth, unsure where he would stay or how long he would be away from the farm. After weeks in ICU fighting pneumonia, organ failure, and even surviving two cardiac arrests, he was told about Cancer Council WA's accommodation Lodges.
Since moving into Milroy Lodge in Shenton Park, Gerard has found more than just a place to stay-he has found peace in the gardens, comfort in the 24-hour support, and connection with others who understand what he is going through.
"I'm so proud to be the face of this year's Christmas Appeal," Gerard said.
"I encourage the WA community to get behind it and support this vital accommodation service for regional people like me."
Cancer Council WA's Accommodation Services Manager, Ron ten Hoor, said the Lodges ease both emotional and financial stress for regional cancer patients.
"This year alone we've had almost 5,000 check-ins from patients and carers," Mr ten Hoor said.
"By donating to our Christmas Appeal, you're ensuring country cancer patients like Gerard have vital support when they need it most."
Learn more about our support services here, or call 13 11 20 for information and support.
