John Stood Up

The following is based on a true story. Names, dates, and a few facts (😊) have been changed to protect the privacy of those involved — and because, honestly, I don’t remember all the exact details.

 Let’s call the hero of this story John Doe. But really, I want you to insert the name of someone you know who has been affected by cancer — because we all know someone.  A few years ago, John was out in his driveway doing some gardening when friends dropped by unexpectedly. As he leaned over the ferns, one of them noticed a strange-looking freckle on the back of his neck. John didn’t have a strong family history of cancer, but he figured it was worth getting checked.  What followed were months of tests and procedures. John underwent over 40 biopsies—from his neck and back, to his lungs—after being diagnosed with a rare skin condition called Nevus Spilus. The cancer had evolved into melanoma, and test after test revealed abnormalities in surrounding tissue. What started with a single mole removal turned into eight surgeries and multiple skin grafts, taken from his legs to cover an area the size of an A4 page across his neck and back.  Real scary stuff.

 I won’t dwell on the recovery (John wouldn’t like that) -But, eventually, John was finally declared cancer-free. Wanting to give back, he joined the MACA Cancer 200 Ride. And when he crossed that finish line, I couldn’t help but get emotional. So, when he asked me to ride alongside him the next year, I didn’t even hesitate.  In 2021, I signed up to ride 200km over two days. I bought a bike (I hadn’t really ridden one since high school), raised money, and committed to doing it for my mate. I trained very little and had no gear and no idea, but I showed up at Optus Stadium with my friends and family cheering us on.

 We hit the road for the first 100km and... I’m not gonna lie — I struggled. My feet and back hurt, my fingers went numb, and let’s just say my backside was not happy. But I kept going, because I kept thinking of John in that hospital bed — torn up, stitched up, and still staying strong. If he could get through that, I could get through this.  That night, we camped in Mandurah. I was exhausted and I had already decided this would be my first and last ride – one and done. Over dinner, the organisers gathered everyone for a presentation. One of the doctors stood up and spoke about a new piece of equipment they’d purchased thanks to funds raised by the ride. Let’s call it the Greatdoozywhatzzit machine.  They explained how the Greatdoozywhatzzit was the first of its kind in Australia, a game-changer in treatment. Used a whole bunch of big words I didn’t understand.  Then, the doctor asked a question I’ll never forget:

 “If this machine helped save your life, please stand up.”

 And John stood up!

 My mate. The one I grew up with. The one I spent hours playing beach volleyball with (under the sun, with just a backwards cap). The man we’ve celebrated so many life moments with. A husband. A father of two… He stood up!  If not for the ride years earlier, and the money it raised, that machine wouldn’t have existed. And he might not be here today.  That moment changed something in me. I realised this isn’t just a war against an invisible enemy. These are battles we can win. And each battle represents a life saved.  Since then, I’ve ridden every year. And every year, during that dinner and that presentation, more and more people stand up—fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters. Real lives. Real families. Real impact.  This isn’t about me or riding 200kms.  This is about winning those battles for all the John’s.

 If you can, please donate. Every dollar helps someone’s loved one live to see another birthday, another milestone, another day.

 This cause is real. It matters. And I hope you’ll join me in fighting the good fight.  If you can - Please donate here  - The Perkins - Robert Dunne

I’m on a mission to defeat cancer.

Cancer has taken so much from us. Whether it is a loved one, family member, friend or closer to home, cancer is relentless.

I want to put a stop to cancer by riding 200kms to raise vital funds for cancer research right here in WA.

The funds I raise will go to the brilliant minds at the Perkins who are committed to !nding breakthroughs that will lead to improved health outcomes for those aected by the hardest-to-treat diseases.

Hearing the words “it’s cancer” is heart-wrenching. But with Perkins researchers, I am determined to eliminate the fear and uncertainty that cancer brings.

On Saturday 11 October and Sunday 12 October 2025, I will pedal alongside my fellow riders who share the dream of making cancer non-lethal. Your support can turn this dream into reality.

Many riders return every year because they know that the funds we raise go back to the Perkins. It is also a worst kept secret that the Ride is the friendliest cycling charity event in Australia. Why not join me in making a difference?

Whether you join me on the Ride or contribute to my fundraising page, your generous support matters.

Together, we can conquer cancer.