“I’ve always been good with my hands!” Greg laughs, his eyes twinkling with that unmistakable Kiwi charm.
“Some people might call me a grumpy old man, but they just haven’t got to know me yet…” he adds with a grin.
On first meeting Greg, some might think he’s hard to approach. But in reality, this kind-hearted Kiwi is the complete opposite. A loving husband, a proud father, and a doting grandfather, Greg is the eternal optimist, always looking on the bright side of life.
When it comes to living with a life-limiting illness, Greg says the hardest part has been losing his driver’s licence. “That’s probably the biggest nuisance,” he admits, “But it’s not going to stop me from living life to the fullest!” With a twinkle in his eye, Greg continues, “There’s nothing on my bucket list – I’ve lived a good life already. Every day is a bonus, and I’m making the most of it – I’m enjoying time on the beach, doing the things I love, and just taking things one day at a time.”
If you ask Greg to describe himself, he’ll tell you that first impressions don’t always tell the full story. “Some might think I’m a bit tough to get to know, but once they do, they’ll see I’m just a softie at heart,” he says with a chuckle.
Greg was born and raised in Tauranga, but like many Kiwis, he couldn’t resist the lure of adventure. “I moved abroad for a while, but eventually came back to New Zealand because it was too hot up north for me!” Greg says with a grin. He eventually settled in Wellington, where he and his family built a life together. Greg’s a bricklayer and builder by trade, and he takes great pride in the six (maybe more!) houses he’s built for his family over the years. “Building the family home in Khandalla was probably one of my greatest achievements,” he reflects.
When Greg talks about the day he was diagnosed with cancer, his tone softens. “We were pretty surprised. I was feeling a bit unwell and had a bump on my neck, but I didn’t think much of it at first. After a lot of scans and appointments, the doctor told me I had a few months at most. That was two years ago now, and I’m still going strong!” he says with a smile, clearly determined to keep going.
Although Greg is retired now and taking things slower, he’s adamant that he’s not letting anything stop him from enjoying life. “There’s not much I can do about it, so I’m just going to keep on living,” he says matter-of-factly. The biggest adjustment has been losing his driver’s licence, especially as a Harley Davidson enthusiast. “That’s been tough, no doubt about it,” he admits, “But I’ve learned to roll with it.”
Greg and his wife Sandy have always been avid motorcyclists, and they’ve had some amazing adventures on their travels. “The Harley family is incredible. We’ve been welcomed by fellow riders in so many countries, but India was definitely the highlight. It was a bit scary, and everything was so different, but the people were just amazing. It was an experience I’ll never forget.”
What Greg didn’t expect, however, was how much he’d come to appreciate the support he’s found at Mary Potter Hospice. “When I first came to the Porirua Day Unit, I didn’t think it was for me. But it’s been such a huge help. It feels like being part of a big family, and I’m so grateful for that,” he says warmly. “The staff and volunteers are all so supportive – I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy attending so much.”
Greg’s message to everyone who helps make Mary Potter Hospice’s work possible is simple, yet heartfelt: “Thank you, thank you so much. You don’t know how much it means to have you all here, helping every step of the way.”
Greg’s story is one of resilience, love, and living life to the fullest, no matter the challenges. His ability to find joy in every day is a true testament to the power of optimism and community.