Congratulations to our Customised Employment program client Dylan, who shared his story on 7HOFM and ABC Radio Hobart as part of their coverage of World Cancer Day.
At Nexus, we provide support to a wide range of people, including those with an acquired disability such as Dylan, who was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was 16.
The years that followed were filled with challenges that very few teenagers could imagine. Dylan became legally blind. He lost his short-term memory, struggled to relearn everyday routines, and had to learn to navigate a world he could no longer fully see.
“I remember when I was out of the hospital, every morning Mum had to tell me what I was doing, step after step,” he said. “That’s how forgetful I was.”
“It was horrible, going through any cancer is tough, but brain cancer… the brain is the most sensitive thing in your body,” Dylan said.
The road to recovery was long and confronting. Dylan had to relearn everyday routines, rebuild his short-term memory, and find new ways to navigate the world. Despite this, he refused to let his diagnosis define him.
“It was bad, but looking back, it was a blessing in disguise,” Dylan said.
Yet five years later, Dylan, now 21, is close to getting the all clear from cancer and has achieved what some people doubted would ever be possible – he has regained his independence and found his purpose in life
Determined to move forward with courage and a positive mindset, Dylan began rebuilding his life with purpose. He joined our Customised Employment program and soon began paid work with our social enterprise, SEED, in their cleaning and gardening teams, and at their Recycle Rewards Depot.
“I wanted to actually do something for myself,” Dylan said. “So, one day I got up, came to Nexus and it was a hard trip, but look where I am now – I am actually doing something with myself.”
Since joining the Customised Employment program, Dylan has been supported to develop his skills, build his confidence and work towards his professional and personal goals.
“I am building myself pathways, new pathways I thought I’d never ever discover,” Dylan said.
As he became more confident, Dylan started engaging with more aspects of life. He began playing blind and low vision cricket, representing Tasmania as an allrounder from 2023. The team, once at the bottom of the national table, climbed to fourth place.
Dylan has also begun supporting others by fundraising and sharing his story at Make A Wish events to try to bring hope to other young people facing complex medical challenges.
The next goal Dylan is most excited about is gaining work as an orderly or hospital aide.
“I want to give back to the nurses and doctors who saved my life,” he said. “That’s the dream job.”
The Nexus Customised Employment program connects people with training, practical work experience, and employment opportunities that match their skills, interests, and support needs.
Read more about Dylan’s story, which was featured on 7HOFM by clicking here.
Learn more about our Customised Employment Program here.