Mike Dawe was diagnosed with metastatic thyroid cancer on April 29, 2021. With no family history of the disease, the 35-year old Registered Nurse, husband, father, and Ironman triathlete was shocked to learn his immediate future was going to look a lot different than expected.
This story shares some realities of young adults diagnosed and living with cancer in Canada and the impact it has on their close circles, and aims to resonate with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by an illness. The series will highlight the journey of a young adult in our community, and how exercise and connecting with Young Adult Cancer Canada (YACC) — a community that “gets it” — is helping him to keep moving forward.
Produced by Young Adult Cancer Canada and Up Sky Down Films.
Part 1
During the first episode, viewers get acquainted with Mike’s plans to take control of his cancer experience and his mental health by doing what he loves to do most — exercise. Family, friends, and beloved musician Joel Plaskett share their perspectives on what Mike is going through.
Part 2
In this episode, the camera catches many raw and beautiful moments of Mike’s journey as he trains hard to do the unthinkable — complete an Ironman while navigating cancer. Mike talks about the importance of finding support to get through challenging times and highlights how Young Adult Cancer Canada (YACC) is an important part of that support for any young adult navigating cancer.
Part 3
In this episode, Mike is elated and ready to fly after reaching some big goals. However, in an unexpected turn of events, Mike is grounded before takeoff and forced to navigate the reality of his situation. True to form, Mike will continue to set his own limits and find light in the darkness.
Get YACCtive 3.0
Navigating cancer is a very intimate, unique, personal journey. It is not a one size fits all approach, it is a one size fits one. For me, I have turned to exercise as both a coping outlet and as a way to stay mentally and physically engaged through this process.
I am embarking on another Ironman on August 19, 2023, and as I do, I invite you to come along and Get YACCtive!
Any activity. Any intensity. Any duration. Anybody with any body. Find something you love and get after it. There is so much opportunity for growth amidst pain and suffering.
There is always light in the darkness let’s get moving and help support other young adults battling cancer, other young adults like me.
You can also donate in support of Get YACCtive 3.0 which will support YACC’s programs and services!
