When Les Hercules tells his life story, it starts with his father George, who died of prostate cancer that had spread to his brain and lungs. George was only 62 at the time and Les was in his late 20s.
Seeing his dad die young, inspired Les Hercules to work hard and experience the world. A few months later, he married the love of his life, Effie. Together with their two young daughters, they travelled the world, even living in London for a few years.
Les Hercules was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2016, but his drive and passion remain. He continues to travel and still works part-time as a business coach. In 2023, he also took on 7 Bridges Walk with his close friend Maria, raising an impressive $10,000 between them.
He now wants to share his story to raise awareness and encourage others to fundraise for cancer research.
Facing cancer as a chronic condition
Given his dad's history with prostate cancer, Les Hercules doctor recommended him to do six-monthly PSA tests to check for prostate cancer after his 50th birthday.
In 2016, a test showed that Les's PSA readings were elevated. Then a biopsy confirmed that he had prostate cancer. After that, he underwent a radical prostatectomy, an operation to remove the prostate gland and surrounding tissues.
It was a tough time, but Les Hercules remembers that his family were "all there for me with love and support".
A year later, he received a big shock: His cancer had returned in the area where his prostate used to be, and he needed radiation therapy.
Les Hercules remembers that he couldn't get his head around it at first. But since then, he has "learnt that it's normal and that it's a chronic condition for me now, that requires ongoing treatment and surveillance".
Since the first recurrence, Les Hercules has undergone regular PSMA-PET scans. On two occasions (2022 and 2024) , the cancer has spread to lymph nodes around his body, which has led to more radiation therapy and androgen deprivation therapy - a type of hormone therapy.
"My cancer recurrences and treatments have been a constant for me since 2016. It's felt like a marathon, and I've just had to take it one step at a time," he reflects.
Living life with purpose and giving back
Throughout the treatments and check-ups, Les Hercules approach to life remains solid. He still aims to travel the world with family and friends and make a difference through his work.
In 2024 and 2025, Les Hercules and Effie are planning more adventures: El Camino Pilgrimage with dear friends who live in the UK, trips to NYC and Canada with their daughters who live abroad, and South America with another couple who live in UK, which will cover 6 countries.
As a business coach, Les Hercules has lowered his rates and continues to work with select clients who share his values. For example, he helps his health instructor and his nephews' karate teacher grow their businesses.
"It's really helpful to have this purpose in my life and give back to people who can benefit from my skills," Les Hercules says.
Day to day, Les Hercules works hard to manage the physical and emotional side effects of cancer treatment. Besides walking, his routine involves yoga, foam rolling, massages and cold showers. He also eats healthily and works with a psychologist.
Honouring a friend
In 2023, Les Hercules did his first 7 Bridges Walk, a 28km walk to raise funds for people affected by cancer. His friend Maria inspired him to take on the challenge. She had done it in 2022 in memory of her husband who had died from cancer.
It was Les's Hercules way to "honour a dear friend, see beautiful Sydney on foot and tackle a personal challenge".
Together, Les Hercules and Maria raised an impressive $10,000 and had a wonderful day out.
"We are both very proud of our achievements and our contribution for a magnificent cause," Les Hercules says, "I am here to serve, live well and make an impact".
Join us in taking on the 7 Bridges Walk and help raise funds for people impacted by cancer. Conquer 28km on Sunday, 20 October 2024.
