Prostate cancer champion
Charlie’s story, Pemberton
Charlie spent over 40 years living and working in the beautiful town of Pemberton, surrounded by the tall Karri forest he called home. A dedicated high school teacher in design and technology, Charlie had no plans to retire. He loved his work, his land, and the everyday joys of life on his bush block just outside town, where he and his wife Pam built their home. But something wasn’t quite right. Charlie had started needing to pee more often and more urgently. It was a small thing at first, but it didn’t go away and deep down, he knew it wasn’t normal.
For a couple of years, he lived with the symptoms, but they persisted.
His prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels from his blood tests were considered “normal,” but Charlie knew his body. He kept pushing for answers, and eventually, a surgical procedure revealed prostate cancer.
By the time it was discovered, surgery was no longer an option as diseased tissue was close to surrounding organs. He began hormone treatment in December 2024, followed by radiation therapy in March 2025.
Due to side effects from treatment, Charlie couldn’t leave the house for months. But with the support of his wife and support groups, he has slowly returned to the activities he loves. Getting back to exercise, he says, has been life changing.
Now retired, Charlie finds strength and purpose in the land he tends and the love he shares with Pam.
Charlie’s advice
“If something changes in your body, don’t ignore it. Act quickly. Don’t wait to feel worse. Knowing your body and doing something early can make all the difference.”
Charlie’s story is a reminder that even subtle changes can be signs of something serious. You don’t have to wait for things to get worse. The sooner you act, the better your options and the better your chance to keep doing what you love.
