He overcame bowel cancer but now will unfortunately watch as his son fights the disease.

His recovery took place in Temora but he now lives in Wagga and was astounded to see a lack of presence from CanAssist in such a major city.

Aren’t we all?

Wagga is the largest inland city in the state and yet we have been without this vital service for years.

The Wagga branch shut down a number of years ago because of a lack of support from volunteers to keep it running.

It is not until you have been through cancer, or supported someone who has, that you truly understand what facilities like CanAssist, Lilier Lodge, the Riverina Cancer Care Centre, Ronald McDonald House and Country Hope can do for patients.

The number of people in the Riverina, who would seek treatment through facilities in Wagga, is astounding.

A vast majority would be forced to travel hundreds of kilometres for tests and treatment.

Services such as the ones above assist families with travel expenses and accommodation.

The existing services do an incredible job and to think what they could accomplish with the returned support of CanAssist would be amazing.

So, John has taken it upon himself to lead the crusade to get the service up and running in Wagga again.

A local CanAssist branch would provide money for those who need it but more importantly, it would focus on support.

It provides peace of mind knowing this might be one less thing you have to think about if that diagnosis comes through.

Recently-diagnosed are often surrounded by family but feel alone and loved ones often feel ill-equipped to give guidance in these situations.

Volunteers are being sought to help fundraise and host events to get the branch off the ground.

It would take mere hours out of your life to help countless others.

Cancer is a disease that inevitably affects everyone so why wouldn’t the city rally to ensure we minimise the fallout?

Have your say at www.dailyadvertiser.com.au as to whether you think we need a CanAssist branch in Wagga.