Patrick's story

As one of the first Australians to have lung cancer detected through the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, Patrick says the Program saved his life.  

Patrick had no symptoms of lung cancer when he visited his doctor about sleep apnoea in July 2025. But within two weeks, he became the first Australian to receive curative surgery as a direct result of the screening program.  

Now, Patrick and his wife Leanne are sharing their story to inspire others to participate in this life-saving program.

Patrick was a long-term smoker and quit just last year, but with no symptoms, a lung cancer diagnosis wasn’t front of mind.

“We went to see the GP about sleep apnoea,” Leanne recalled. “We were referred to a specialist, and during the consult he let us know that Patrick was eligible for the new lung screening program.”  

“He asked us if we were interested and we said absolutely. It was a no-brainer.”  

That same day, Patrick had a free low-dose CT-scan under the National Lung Cancer Screening Program.

“I was completely surprised when the results came back saying I had stage 1 lung cancer.”

Patrick’s tumour was the size of a grape. Had he waited until symptoms appeared, the outcome may have been very different.  

“That was such a relief to be able to get the diagnosis early and know that he was going to be treated quickly,” Leanne said.

Just days later, Patrick underwent surgery to remove the cancer.  

Screening is all about finding lung cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.

Leanne is grateful to the Program for giving them more time together and to spend with their loved ones.

“We’re very close as a family,” she said. “We want to enjoy each and every birthday with the grandchildren, and all the special milestones. We need to be around for them all.”

Now an advocate for early detection, Patrick is urging others like him to participate in lung screening, even if they feel healthy.    

"If you're eligible for lung screening, or think you might be, book an appointment with your doctor today. The earlier lung cancer is found, the more you can do about it – this test could save your life too.”

Find out more about how lung screening works.