Finding a voice during life's toughest challenges

5 Mar 2026

While undergoing treatment for Stage 4 bowel cancer at our hospital, Jacob found himself moved by the stories of the young families – parents just beginning the same daunting journey.

Inspired to help them find the words, he wrote "Hope Avenue." Through the eyes of two children, Isla and Max, the book gently explores the complex emotions of a parent’s diagnosis, highlighting the importance and power of family and love.

The idea for the book sparked during Jacob’s early rounds of chemotherapy. While managing the side effects of treatment, his mind was racing with ideas, and he felt a deep calling to help other young parents navigating similar journeys.

"Writing this story has been deeply therapeutic for me. It’s my way of reaching out and providing a bit of comfort to families I’ve never even met, but whose journey I understand so well," Jacob said.

Jacob has generously donated copies of "Hope Avenue" to the Bendat Cancer Centre and recently shared a touching, full-circle moment:

"I recently had this incredible moment during treatment where my partner noticed the patient in the chair next to me reading Hope Avenue to his young daughter. Neither of them realised I was the author sitting right there - it was such a touching reminder of why I wrote it," Jacob said.

We are so proud to have Jacob as part of our community. His "unapologetic" approach to sharing his journey through his book and personal blog is a testament to the power of finding a voice during life's toughest challenges.

Copies of "Hope Avenue" are currently available to read in our Ivy Suite waiting rooms or for purchase on Amazon

Thank you, Jacob, for sharing your heart with our patients and their families.