How Graham is tackling life, one year after he was diagnosed with an incurable disease
A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life.
The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND).
It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression.
But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes.
"The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said.
There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND.
"I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said.
Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand.
That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21.
Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known.
Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness.
But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression.
Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem".
MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years.
"I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said.
"If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that."
Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years.
Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health.
Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions.
But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat.
"I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said.
"The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps."
"As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said.
He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan.
Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND.
His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others.
To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support.
"I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now."
A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life.
The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND).
It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression.
But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes.
"The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said.
There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND.
"I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said.
Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand.
That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21.
Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known.
Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness.
But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression.
Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem".
MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years.
"I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said.
"If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that."
Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years.
Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health.
Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions.
But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat.
"I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said.
"The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps."
"As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said.
He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan.
Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND.
His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others.
To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support.
"I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now."
A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life.
The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND).
It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression.
But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes.
"The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said.
There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND.
"I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said.
Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand.
That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21.
Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known.
Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness.
But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression.
Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem".
MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years.
"I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said.
"If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that."
Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years.
Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health.
Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions.
But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat.
"I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said.
"The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps."
"As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said.
He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan.
Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND.
His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others.
To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support.
"I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now."
A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life.
The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND).
It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression.
But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes.
"The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said.
There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND.
"I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said.
Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand.
That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21.
Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known.
Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness.
But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression.
Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem".
MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years.
"I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said.
"If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that."
Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years.
Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health.
Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions.
But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat.
"I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said.
"The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps."
"As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said.
He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan.
Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND.
His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others.
To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support.
"I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now."
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The Advertiser
15 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Jeff McCloy tributes: 'We were Statler and Waldorf'
Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse." Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse." Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse." Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse."
The Advertiser
a day ago
- The Advertiser
How Graham is tackling life, one year after he was diagnosed with an incurable disease
A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life. The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND). It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression. But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes. "The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said. There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND. "I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said. Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand. That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21. Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known. Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness. But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression. Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem". MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years. "I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said. "If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that." Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years. Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health. Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions. But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat. "I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said. "The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps." "As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said. He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan. Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND. His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others. To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support. "I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now." A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life. The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND). It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression. But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes. "The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said. There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND. "I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said. Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand. That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21. Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known. Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness. But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression. Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem". MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years. "I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said. "If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that." Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years. Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health. Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions. But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat. "I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said. "The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps." "As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said. He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan. Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND. His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others. To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support. "I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now." A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life. The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND). It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression. But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes. "The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said. There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND. "I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said. Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand. That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21. Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known. Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness. But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression. Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem". MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years. "I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said. "If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that." Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years. Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health. Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions. But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat. "I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said. "The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps." "As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said. He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan. Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND. His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others. To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support. "I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now." A year ago, Graham Lancaster received news that could have completely upended his life. The well-known regional lawyer was told he had the incurable degenerative condition motor neurone disease (MND). It's something he is conscious of every day, and he is proactive in taking steps to try and slow the disease's progression. But generally, life has rolled on: he continues to work, indulge in his interests, and maintain his sense of humour, although he admits it can slant a little dark sometimes. "The concept of the one-year anniversary coming up is significant because, in that time, I haven't had a lot of symptoms and my progression has been very slow, and the doctors have confirmed that," Mr Lancaster said. There are reminders of the illness: the morning he spoke to the Mercury, his tricep started twitching, a symptom of MND. "I went, 'Alright, you're reminding me you're still there', " he said. Mr Lancaster received a provisional diagnosis of MND, an incurable degenerative illness, on June 24, 2024, after he pushed for tests when he realised he had muscle wasting in his right hand. That blow came just days after Global MND Awareness Day, which is marked annually on June 21. Ten days after the provisional diagnosis, doctors confirmed Mr Lancaster had sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of the disease for which the cause is not known. Mr Lancaster is receiving treatment from his doctors, including a trial of a drug called Ambroxol, and has appointments every three months to track the progression of his illness. But he is also on a regimen of vitamin supplements and other therapies, which he has found through online communities and his own searches, which he hopes will inhibit the disease's progression. Mr Lancaster said the number of people who died of MND within a year or two of diagnosis suggested to him that "late diagnosis is a very real problem". MND Australia says the average survival time after diagnosis is two and a half years. "I was lucky to get diagnosed early, so I got on to doing things early, and you know, I do believe that has helped to slow the progression," Mr Lancaster said. "If you get diagnosed late, you're already on a pathway of cascading issues and problems, and it's hard to turn all of that back and climb your way back up from that." Mr Lancaster plans to beat the expected survival period of two to five years. Not only has he taken steps to slow the MND, but he has put more energy into improving his general health. Unfortunately, he had to give up cheer - at one point, he was Australia's oldest male cheerleader - because he doesn't want to let his team down should he become unable to attend competitions. But as a dedicated supporter of the Illawarra Hawks, Mr Lancaster has remained a prominent sight at the basketball team's home games since his diagnosis, always sporting his distinctive double-horned red-and-black Vikings hat. "I will be going to the Hawks games for as long as I can," he said. "The seat we have at the stadium, if I've got to crawl down to that seat, I will crawl down to that seat and crawl back up the steps." "As far as purpose, I think that having a job that I love means that I get in, I get things done, and that keeps me going as well," Mr Lancaster said. He also has another very special motivating factor: he and his wife, Cath, will become grandparents for the first time later this year when their daughter Sarah (they also have a son, Patrick) welcomes her first child with husband Jordan. Mr Lancaster said Cath had supported his efforts to slow his disease - but added that she didn't let him get out of jobs around the house just because he had MND. His goal is not just to live as long as he can, but to live well and help others. To that end, he shares information he's learnt with others experiencing MND and offers support. "I've come to embrace the ALS," he said. "I don't want to spend a lot of energy fighting it, per se. I think I'm working with it, and it's just something that's part of the day now."
News.com.au
5 days ago
- News.com.au
Cricket icon David Lawrence dead days after receiving King's Birthday award
England cricket legend David 'Syd' Lawrence has died aged 61 following a battle with motor neurone disease. The ex-Gloucestershire star was the first British-born black cricketer to play for England. The former fast bowler left an amazing legacy on the sport and was recently awarded an MBE in the King's birthday honours list. Lawrence, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year, was incredibly proud to be honoured. Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer. He said last week: 'It is not something I ever thought would sit after my name. 'I am absolutely delighted that it will do so for however long I am here and will be a part of my legacy when I am gone.' Following Lawrence's sad passing, a family statement said: ''Syd' was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field and no more so than to his family who were with him when he passed.' The ECB have paid tribute to Lawrence, calling him a 'pioneering' player who left an 'indelible mark' on the sport in this country. ECB chair Richard Thompson said: 'David 'Syd' Lawrence was a true trailblazer of English cricket and a man of immense courage, character, and compassion. 'His impact on the game extended far beyond the boundary ropes. As a fast bowler, he thrilled crowds with his pace and passion. As a leader and advocate, he broke barriers and inspired change, becoming a powerful voice for inclusion and representation in our sport. 'Even in the face of his illness, David showed extraordinary strength and dignity, continuing to uplift others with his resilience and spirit. He leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who love cricket. 'Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the entire cricketing community at this time.' Lawrence played five test matches for England, only for his international career to be brutally cut short by a serious knee injury in 1992. He left an incredible mark on Gloucestershire, playing 280 matches for them over a 16-year span. Lawrence later returned to the club as president in 2022. Paying tribute to their legendary former fast bowler and executive, Gloucestershire wrote: 'Gloucestershire Cricket is devastated to learn of the passing of former player and Club President, David 'Syd' Lawrence MBE, aged 61. 'Everyone at Gloucestershire Cricket would like to send their best wishes to David's family during this terribly sad time.' England star paid tribute to Lawrence ahead of today's match-up with India at Headingley. Stars including Ben Stokes took part in a minute's applause in honour of the cricket icon. David Lawrence managed to pack so much into the last few months of his life. He survived the terrible ravages of Motor Neurone Disease long enough to tell his tragic yet inspirational story and be awarded an MBE. Lawrence, who has died aged 61, was a huge-hearted fast bowler, body builder, night club owner and extrovert character with a booming voice. In his book In Syd's Voice, published earlier this month, Lawrence spoke about his shattering diagnosis last year and the impact on his life. As each week passed, the most basic tasks such as walking, talking and swallowing became more difficult and ultimately impossible. Lawrence's account was raw, emotional and difficult to read in places. He even said he was fortunate in some ways because of the love and care of his wife Gaynor and son Buster. He wrote: 'The ability to hold a knife and fork and bring food and drink to my mouth then started to wobble until it became impossible. Holding the TV remote control was another small thing that gave me some independence and now that has gone, too. 'I needed some help getting extra oxygen into my lungs at night, so I had a machine to help me with that. I now require that help during the day, too. 'I knew this is what I had to look forward to, but the reality is far more painful than I imagined.' While his voice was still strong enough, Lawrence programmed a machine which allowed him to communicate by saying words and sentences using his eyes to move a cursor across a screen. Lawrence was the last man to dismiss the great Viv Richards in Test cricket but his career was cut short by a knee injury in New Zealand in 1991. The Test match was a dead-set draw but, typically of Syd, he was charging in to bowl. The noise of his snapped kneecap and the subsequent roars of pain as he punched the ground could be heard from 100 yards away. Lawrence attempted a comeback a few years later but his career was effectively over. He owned a bar and then a nightclub in Bristol and competed as a body builder, winning an over-40s amateur competition. In 2022, he was elected president of his county Gloucestershire, the first black man to hold the office. Last week, Lawrence was made an MBE in the King's Birthday Honours and said: 'It's not something I ever thought would sit after my name. 'I'm absolutely delighted that it will do so for however long I am here and will be a part of my legacy when I'm gone.'
