Meet Kevin, Peace of Mind Foundation's Community Engagement Manager
Kevin’s lived experience with a brain tumour diagnosis within his family led him to Peace of Mind Foundation and his experience in senior leadership roles throughout Australia brings highly valued expertise and guidance.
There’s not much Kevin hasn’t turned his many skills and talents to, he’s a certified facilitator and executive coach and a master practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Kevin has worked extensively in addictions, community health and development, as well as with Indigenous communities Australia-wide.
You spend a lot of time speaking to brain cancer patients, often when they’re first diagnosed. Can you share some common themes in those early conversations?
There's a whole maelstrom of powerful emotions expressed. For some it's a situation or state of confusion, feeling overwhelmed by the diagnosis and in particular the "suddenness" of it all.
Oftentimes, unfortunately, the delivery of the diagnosis is blunt and quite confronting, so a lot are dealing with this confronting reality and its implications for them and their loved ones. Time to digest and adjust is another expressed need. Also, there is often a feeling that others "don't get it" and a feeling of isolation as a consequence. A need to find and talk to others 'in the same boat' is common. I'm always inspired by the gratitude and appreciation that is expressed for others and the positivity, as people focus on what they have and not on what they haven't.
Attitude is everything and these conversations reinforce just how important connection and support is to those dealing with a brain tumour diagnosis.
What does a good day off look like to you?
I’ve always enjoyed community work and have been involved in Surf Life Saving for the past 30 years, the whole family are lifesavers. More recently I have become involved in and passionate about women’s AFL football because of my youngest daughter's involvement. A day off with family and friends is hard to beat, maybe throw in some time on my guitar and a glass of red and I’m happy!
You and your wife Mary have seven children, can you share your best dad tips?
One thing I’ve learnt along the way is never to give parenting advice. Do it your way is my best tip!
