Daniel Jernazian was just 11 years old when he first had cancer.
He remembers one of his first sources of inspiration was other kids in the same ward.
“They were roughly around my age or younger, and seeing them going through what I was going through, I felt like I’m not alone,” Daniel said.
Daniel was diagnosed with and treated for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer which affects the lymphatic system.
Being so young, he was initially treated at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead before beginning radiation at the Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre.
Lymphoma cancer is the number one cancer in young people aged 16–29.
“Hopefully it can resonate with others, because having survived twice, I see it as such a huge achievement,” Daniel said.
The former Westmead Hospital patient and cancer survivor has just self-published his first book, ‘I made cancer cry twice’.
He says the staff he met here at the hospital had a significant impact on him.
“From volunteers who dedicate their times and efforts to bring awareness to cancer charities, support groups, religious groups, hospital programs and initiatives to the medical staff in nurses, doctors, surgeons and specialists, each staff plays a key role for a person’s cancer journey,” Daniel said.
While Daniel seems a model of strength, it wasn’t always easy for him.
In 2004 he went into remission for roughly a decade, but Daniel was tested again in 2021 when he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
Thyroid cancer is the ninth most common cancer in Australia.
Daniel is currently under monitoring by his specialist, and says he is grateful to his family and faith.
“Having incredible support, the love and patience of my family was really important, and vital for me to have them as a backup team that can help me through that time,” Daniel said.
Now working in finance and throwing himself into film making, he’s determined to live life as full as it can be.
“Looking back now as an adult, all those experiences have shaped me into who I am today.
“Going through such adversities and challenges at such a young age gave me a deeper understanding about life, health, and the importance of having the willpower to continue and fight on against such a big adversity and challenge,” Daniel said.
Daniel encourages people to donate to the Dry July fundraiser, Westmead Hospital – The Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre – Dry July 2025.
“It’s important to care for those who may be suffering with life threatening illnesses as that act of compassion and awareness would in return, instil a greater appreciation and gratitude towards their own lives,” Daniel said.
“Their support may just be the difference to save another person’s life or make a greater impact for the future,” Daniel said.