I am a 26-year-old Captain in the Australian Army. In 2013, my life drastically changed when I was diagnosed with testicular cancer.

This resulted in surgery to remove my testicle, months of chemotherapy, and very invasive surgery to remove all of my abdominal lymph nodes. As well as fighting (and beating) testicular cancer, I was also diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2018.

This resulted in 3 weeks in hospital and 2 major operations – which included having my colon removed which was riddled with cancer. If it wasn’t for early detection, my chance of survival would have been very different. I have a very positive outlook on life and I’m committed in helping others in whatever way I can.

I want to raise awareness to others that they are not invincible in their 20s and 30s, and a simple check up at the doctors may just save their life.

These life threatening adversities have led me to starting an initiative “25StayAlive”. Don’t wait until 50 to start taking your health seriously. Being proactive and aware of your body at 25 will set you up for success later on in life.

Follow Hugo’s initiative ’25StayAlive’ Facebook page here.