Roger Blue Eyes
This story is one of love and hope, and is made possible by the developments in melanoma research.
Five and a half years ago, my husband Roger was diagnosed with melanoma. In his case, this nasty form of cancer attacked his lymph system. At the time, we were told that, had this happened a few months earlier, nothing could have been done. Because of melanoma research happening then, there were options available to him, one being immunotherapy. Roger was one of a lucky few who had the right DNA to receive treatment. He is here today because of melanoma research. The immunotherapy treatment which Roger had has now, through further research, been adapted to treat a much wider range of cancers. As of this week, Roger started another cycle of immunotherapy, which we hope will again be successful.
One of the positives from the diagnosis, was the change in our relationship of over 60 years. We have been brought closer together; there is a deeper understanding of each other’s needs with a stronger connection and love for each other. I feel privileged to have been given the opportunity to experience these changes in our relationship. Had Roger not had melanoma, we wouldn’t have had the catalyst to experience this wonderful change and closeness with another person. We are a very close-knit team working together with one aim in mind. Melanoma research, especially immunotherapy, has given us the gift of more time – time to enjoy life together, and to be grateful for this.
Understandably, the focus is on the person with melanoma, but the diagnosis of melanoma and its associated lifestyle affect those nearest and dearest, especially the main carer. Each person has their own way of dealing with this. For me, and with the utmost support and encouragement from my husband, I have continued to play competition tennis. I call it my ‘antidepressant drug.’ At Roger’s insistence, I entered the Australasian Masters Games, and the Pan Pacific Games last year and won a gold medal in the 80+ singles in both. Roger was there to cheer me on, and said that when he was watching, he wanted to tell everybody around that it was his wife on the court.
I must also acknowledge the love and support of our family. There has been a strengthening, closeness and love in their relationships with us both that has been heartwarming and uplifting. Again, thanks to the time given to Roger by melanoma research. Friends have also played a big part in keeping us positive.
Roger and I both feel very strongly that it is imperative that melanoma research continues in the quest for zero deaths from melanoma, and so I registered a team called Roger Blue Eyes to participate in the Melanoma March from Henley Square on Sunday 26th March. Roger is hoping to be able to do this 4 km walk with the family there to make sure he completes it somehow (probably in a wheelchair). I have been overwhelmed by the support and generosity shown to me from so many sources, to help melanoma research in the future. The reason for our team name, Roger Blue Eyes, is because, over 60 years ago, one of the first things I noticed, and fell in love with, was Roger’s beautiful blue eyes.
Gloria Dennis – from the heart.
The AMRF wishes to thank Gloria and Roger Dennis for sharing their story and for their continued support for melanoma research.
