Will's Story

In July 2020, at the age of 42, Nine Newsreader Will McDonald was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer after developing a pain in his hip. When diagnosed, specialists found that the cancer had already spread outside the prostate to his left hip. Being diagnosed with aggressive cancer at such a young age came as a complete shock.

“My dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019 at the age of 75. They found his relatively early and he’s back to full health now,” says Will.

“After dad was diagnosed, I knew that I had an increased risk of prostate cancer – but to be diagnosed so soon was a lot to take in. But just days after my prostate cancer diagnosis, I made the decision to do everything I possibly can to stay positive, strong and get completely healthy again.”

Since his diagnosis Will has courageously handled chemotherapy, radiation therapy and ongoing hormone therapy - working throughout his treatment.

Despite all he has endured to date, the experience has made him more determined to make a difference by supporting PCFA in campaigns such as Dry July.

Will and his partner Samantha also recently welcomed their first child Alfie Buxton McDonald to the family, after five arduous rounds of IVF.

“I’m proud to be an ambassador for PCFA and urge others to go Dry this July for men and families fighting prostate cancer,” he said.

“With 1 in 5 men now diagnosed in their lifetime, I know why I Dry July - awareness and support has never been more important.”