About blue brothers

In January 2015, Dave Cattermole and his partner Gill completed Stewart Island's Great Walk, both in typical form and in good time. But by Easter, Dave no longer had the energy to get off the couch. Something didn’t feel quite right. After many tests, scans & specialist visits, Dave was eventually diagnosed with a cancerous tumour on his kidney. The doctors moved swiftly and completed a roof-top surgery to remove the affected kidney, and subsequent scans revealed a small tumour on his other remaining kidney, as well as two inflamed (and inoperable) chest lymph nodes.

For most people, this would have been an extremely tough blow, for Dave, he committed to a strict health and fitness regime. His goal was not only to recover well from his operations, but to continue to live life well, despite his remaining cancer diagnosis.

This he did, and only four months after having his kidney removed, he and Gill completed the 120km Australian Sunshine Coast’ Coastal Pathway. A testament to Dave’s strength and tenacity to not let cancer get in the way of living. In fact, he’d often tell people “I prefer to say that I am living with cancer, rather than dying of it. Cancer doesn’t stop me - in fact, I’m determined to face it head on" and that he did.

Dave continued to commit to this strong work and health ethic, and for the next 9-years, worked hard to lay a foundation which culminated in the legacy known as the Blue Brothers Movement. With the help of Gill and the support of regional Cancer Societies, Dave established Blue Brothers groups across Canterbury, Ashburton, North Canterbury and Marlborough. These groups continue to thrive with good numbers and strong support from the local community.

Despite his never-ending positivity and determined attitude, Dave started experiencing a number of medical setbacks towards the end of 2023. His cancer had spread, and he faced a tough challenge to keep it at bay. He fought an incredible battle and remained positive as he faced a barrage of treatments. Sadly on 23 June 2024 – exactly nine-years to the day of his initial Kidney Surgery - our commander, chief, and fighting warrior took flight from this world. He will be forever missed.

If there was one goal Dave had in his final years it was to use his own personal experience to help others. He felt it was crucial to “live with cancer” in a way that allowed him to still fully experience all that life had to offer. He knew how important it was to keep moving, keep connected and keep drinking coffee with his mates! And he knew there would be others out there too who would want to do the same. And whilst he is sorely missed, the Blue Brother’s team have committed to keeping Dave’s legacy alive. With the mantle having been passed to his partner Gill, and with the support of so many, the good work of this amazing brotherhood continues to thrive.

The vision remains steadfast to ensure men living with cancer are given the chance to connect, move, chat and share their collective journeys.

If you, or anyone you know, is currently living with cancer and seeking to be part of a community to support your recovery and wellbeing, contact the Blue Brothers team for more information, they'd love to hear from you:
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‍hello@bluebrothers.org.nz
www.bluebrothers.org.nzhello@bluebrothers.org.nz
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