After 23 years in the Royal Australian Air Force and another 25 in the not-for-profit sector, Phil Greenwood envisioned a peaceful retirement filled with long-postponed passions and travel. ‘I was finally ready to explore the things I never had time for’, says Phil. ‘Then everything flipped.’
A casual comment from a medical specialist, ‘there’s something else going on that needs a closer look’ led to a cascade of tests, lymph node, prostate, bone marrow.
‘That last one was done with a tool like an apple corer,’ Phil chuckles. ‘Thankfully, it was much smaller and I’m grateful for the green whistle.’
The diagnosis was confronting, lymphoma, early-stage leukemia, prostate cancer, and skin cancer. ‘All that at once, and my brother had just passed away, prostate cancer played a big part in his decline. I couldn’t help but wonder if I was next.’
Treatment included five weeks of radiation, regular monitoring, and specialist visits. ‘You get on the medical roundabout and there’s no clear exit, but you push forward,’ says Phil.
That tenacity was forged in uniform. From Wagga to Butterworth, Canberra to London, Phil’s RAAF career was filled with colourful moments including a cheeky ‘coaster campaign’ to earn an overseas posting. ‘I had ‘Post Greenwood Overseas’ printed on them and slipped them under senior officers’ drinks,’ he laughs. ‘Eventually, I got my wish.’
After command roles in publishing and senior recruiting and administration appointments, Phil transitioned into not-for-profit and community service and leading a medical charity. He was awarded the Medal in the Order of Australia in 2023 for his ongoing contributions.
Support on his cancer journey came through Veterans’ Affairs and the Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 helpline. ‘That number was a lifeline. I could ask anything even the silly questions and never feel judged. That meant everything when I was overwhelmed.’
Now, Phil continues his fight but with purpose. ‘It’s not over. But I’m still standing, and I’ve learned the power of empathy, connection, and asking for help.’
About Phil Greenwood:
Phil Greenwood is a retired RAAF officer, not-for-profit leader, and community volunteer. Awarded the Medal in the Order of Australia in 2023, he now advocates for cancer awareness and support services after his own experience with multiple cancer diagnoses.