Paul’s cancer journey: ringing the bell at Icon Cancer Centre The Bays

When Paul Butcher, 78, headed to his routine blood test just before Christmas last year, he didn’t expect anything out of the ordinary. The longtime Mornington Peninsula resident, who splits his time between Somers and South West Rocks in northern New South Wales with his wife, was simply following his usual six-month check-up schedule.

But that ordinary appointment turned out to be anything but routine. The test revealed early signs of cancer, setting off a chain of events that led to a life-saving diagnosis and timely treatment. Now, Paul is urging others not to ignore subtle changes in their health and to stay on top of regular check-ups.

He first noticed a swelling under his neck and chin and thought it might be mumps. During the appointment, he mentioned the swelling to his specialist. The bloods showed no issues, but his specialist took the concern seriously and referred him for a scan. 

That comment in passing changed everything.  

Photo caption: Paul (centre) with the team at Icon Cancer Centre The Bays following his treatment. 

Icon Cancer Centre at the Bays is the first radiation oncology service in the Mornington Peninsula shire, providing the latest radiation therapy technology and techniques for all cancer types. The service is led by highly experienced and established local radiation oncologists, Dr David Blakey and Dr Maree Sexton.  

A special mention goes to his radiation oncologist, Dr David Blakey, who Paul described as calm, approachable and deeply experienced. 

“David was fantastic. From the very first appointment, I felt reassured. He and his team created an environment where you feel cared for, not just treated,” he said.  

One of the most memorable moments of Paul’s journey came when he completed treatment and was invited to ring the centre’s ceremonial bell; a tradition marking the end of cancer treatment. 

“I rang that bell, and we all danced around like idiots,” Paul said with a smile. The staff clapped and celebrated with us. It was such a joyful, emotional moment.” 

Now in remission since April this year, Paul will continue to have check-ups and PET scans every six months.  

Icon Cancer Centre The Bays site manager, Khaled Azar, said Paul’s story shows the power of early detection and the importance of having high-quality cancer care close to home.  

“Paul was a wonderful patient, and we’re all thrilled to see him doing so well,” Khaled said. 

“Having access to advanced treatment right here in Mornington Peninsula makes a real difference to people like Paul.”  

If you would like to find out more on how you can be a patient, please visit Radiation Therapy Cancer Treatment on the Mornington Peninsula