Faced with a life-altering diagnosis, Rhys Jones didn't shy away from his battle with cancer. Instead, he drew on his training in the military to embrace open communication and emotional expression - a move that unexpectedly empowered him and others to face their health challenges with courage.
Talking about your cancer diagnosis
Rhys Jones, a former military leader and chief executive of Fire and Emergency New Zealand, understands firsthand the importance of open communication about cancer experiences. Having served 35 years in the military, Rhys has learned to stay calm and composed in adversity. After being diagnosed with bowel cancer, he became transparent about his journey, opening up vital conversations about early detection and self-care.
Don't expect anyone else to be taking care of yourself. There are lots of things out there that you can reach out and do yourself and be aware of, things that will help identify things early.
Rhys Jones
You don't always need to be the tough guy
Initially in disbelief after being diagnosed with bowel cancer, Rhys soon realised the importance of open communication about his experiences. Surrounded by a culture that expected him to be tough and composed, Rhys found solace in discussing his diagnosis with friends, family, and colleagues. By sharing his journey, Rhys helped others understand and inspired them to prioritise their health.
In this episode, you'll learn the following:
1. Adopt proactive health measures to detect cancer symptoms early on.
2. Embrace openness in sharing your cancer experiences for mutual support.
3. Establish a resilient support network throughout your cancer journey.
4. Tackle emotions and survivor guilt in yourself and others affected by cancer.
5. Adapt to changing relationships post-cancer recovery for lasting connections.
Dealing with a cancer diagnosis
Rhys shares on the podcast why gathering information, asking questions, and fully comprehending the situation are essential. Doing so enables individuals to make informed decisions regarding treatment options and creates a better understanding of the impact it might have on their lives.
He believes recognising early symptoms and prioritising one's health cannot be overstated. Emphasising that cancer is more common than people realize, Rhys shares how his bowel cancer diagnosis came as a surprise, forcing him to accept that he had taken his good health for granted.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Be proactive about personal health, especially in high-risk professions.
Utilize available screening tests and don't delay in taking them.
Encourage open conversations about cancer among friends and colleagues.
Seek support and understanding from organizations and loved ones during a cancer diagnosis.
Acknowledge the importance of early detection and prevention measures.
Reach out to healthcare professionals when experiencing symptoms or concerns.
Maintain open communication with family and loved ones during the cancer journey.
Consider the potential impact of cancer on work and personal life.
Promote a culture of self-care and responsibility for personal health within organisations.
Share personal stories to inspire others to prioritize their health and well-being.