01 April 2026
For Nigel McBride, volunteering is about making sure no man is caught off guard by prostate cancer the way he was.
At 52, a routine blood test revealed elevated PSA levels, leading to a prostate cancer diagnosis in July 2022 despite having no symptoms or family history.
After further investigations confirmed the diagnosis, Nigel considered several treatment options before undergoing robotic surgery. While recovery brought both physical and mental challenges, he credits the support he received along the way as a turning point.
“The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses were incredible. They supported me before and after surgery, helped me understand what to expect, and gave me practical advice that made a real difference,” he said.
Nigel also found strength through connecting with others who had shared similar experiences, particularly through his local Prostate Cancer Support Group in Morwell.
“That support group played a big role. It gave me the chance to talk openly, ask questions, and realise I wasn’t alone,” he said.
After just a few months, Nigel returned to running and eventually completed a half-marathon in early 2024.
Today, he gives back by volunteering with PCFA, serving at fundraising and awareness events, and presenting as a Life Force presenter.
“What motivated me was saying thank you to the doctors, nurses and especially my GP who helped detect it early,” he says.
For Nigel, volunteering is about connection as much as awareness.
“Sharing my journey helps other men overcome fear and anxiety,” he says.
“There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and sometimes men just need someone to talk to who’s been through it.”
He has become a regular presence at community events, support groups and awareness activities, including the Rob Roy Revival in Victoria, where he spoke with men and their family members and helped spark important conversations about testing.
It is the sense of community that continues to drive his involvement.
“The people you meet through PCFA, the support groups, the conversations you have. That’s what keeps you coming back,” Nigel says.
“I get so much joy in talking to men about their experiences before or after treatment, and try to get rid of the myths about what is on Doctor Google, where most men fear the unknown.”
He is also passionate about encouraging others to get involved, offering to support new volunteers by presenting alongside them and helping build their confidence.
With enough notice, Nigel is always willing to step forward and contribute to events that raise awareness and connect men with support.
“I always think about what could have happened if I hadn’t been tested,” he said.
For more information about prostate cancer, or to find a support group, visit www.prostate.org.au or phone 1800 22 00 99 to speak with a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse.
