Ethan’s Story
In late 2021, Ethan's life took an unexpected and devastating turn when he fell seriously ill. After months of worsening symptoms, scans and biopsies, he was diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma - a rare and aggressive form of cancer - with the primary tumour located in his kidney. By the time it was discovered, the cancer had already spread to his right hip.
Ethan began an intensive treatment journey, undergoing six months of chemotherapy on a biweekly basis. This was followed by radiotherapy targeting his abdomen and in November 2022, he had surgery to remove his right kidney. Just a month later, in December, he underwent another major surgery - a partial hip replacement - in an effort to contain the disease.
In 2023, Ethan made the brave decision to give up work and live life as fully as he could. He set off to travel, determined to reclaim some joy and freedom. But just before his trip began, his doctors delivered another blow: the cancer had returned, this time in his left thigh. He faced another three months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to the area. In February 2024, he underwent a complex limb salvage surgery on his left leg.
Initially, Ethan recovered well, even beginning to walk again unaided. But in April, tragedy struck once more - the metal rod implanted during surgery snapped, fracturing the bone. He was placed in a full leg cast for six weeks while a new rod was manufactured. When surgeons attempted to replace the broken implant, they found the new part didn't fit. They had to wire the leg together temporarily, buying time while another custom component was made. In June 2024, the surgery was finally completed successfully.
Just two months later, in August, Ethan received the most difficult news yet. The cancer had returned in his left knee and was now considered incurable. From this point on, his care became palliative. He endured even more chemotherapy, followed by a knee replacement and muscle flap surgery in February 2025.
In April 2025, he was scheduled for surgery to remove two tumours in his lungs. But in a deeply disheartening moment, the operation was cancelled while he sat waiting in the hospital. Further investigation revealed that the cancer had returned again. With every recurrence, treatment options were becoming more limited.
Ethan is currently undergoing yet another round of chemotherapy. His mobility is limited. He doesn't know what comes next - none of us do. But through it all, he continues to fight. With remarkable resilience, he holds on to hope and faces each day with courage, determination and an unwavering will to live. This is not just a story about cancer. It's a story about strength and the relentless human spirit.
Despite everything and losing the chance to live the life he deserved to have, Ethan remains happy and peaceful - often found with his little dog Stanley by his side. He keeps himself busy planning Pedal4Purpose, loving music and Formula 1 and simply taking each day as it comes. His spirit remains unbroken.