Troy Harvey from Bundaberg battles deadly bone cancer

A Bundaberg father and businessman isn’t worried so much about himself as he faces the biggest battle of his life, he’s far more concerned about his three-year-old daughter.

Troy Harvey, battling bone cancer said “It’s hard to shift gears after living life at 100kph for so long.“

A Bundaberg father and community leader is facing the battle of his life.

Troy Harvey, and independent support worker who runs Thriving Horizons Disability Support, is currently undergoing treatment for Osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.

Now, to support the young dad, friends have launched a GoFundMe to help raise funds for his treatment costs, living expenses, and to help support his family during this challenging time.

Troy’s story is not just about his battle with cancer, but also about the incredible support he has given to his community.

He is a hands-on dad to his three-year-old daughter, Brooklyn.

The importance of their bond is clear, especially as Mr Harvey fights cancer and navigates life in Brisbane for treatment.

“This is by far the worst part of this whole situation,” he said.

“I can deal with anything life throws my way, but she’s only three.

“I let her shave off my beard before I left because cancer doesn’t get to take that from me.

“I didn’t want her first visit to see me also be the first time she saw me without a beard.”

“I didn’t want her first visit to be the first time she saw me without a beard”.

His community, especially the families of his clients, have rallied around him, providing tremendous emotional and practical support.

Mr Harvey’s main focus is on his health, but his family, friends, and even his extended community are focused on his well being.

The GoFundMe campaign highlights how mental health plays a crucial role in his journey, particularly as he remains separated from Brooklyn due to his weakened immune system.

“Our goal is to get Brooklyn to Brisbane as often as she can providing she is also well enough to visit, as the common cold can be fatal when (Mr Harvey’s) immune system is so low,” campaign organiser, Courtney Hersom said.

Mr Harvey has worked passionately in the disability industry for the past nine years, founding Thriving Horizons in October 2020.

His goal was to bring positive change to the industry and “be the change”.

His efforts were recognised in 2023 when a local paper published two articles about his Disability Social Nights, a series of events he organised at no profit to himself.

These social gatherings were designed to foster connection, provide a safe space for people with disabilities, and create a fun environment for the community.

“It brought together old and new friends and provided something fun and safe for the disability community to be a part of,” Ms Hersom said.

Despite the challenges of organising such events, Mr Harvey’s dedication to his community remained unwavering.

“These social nights have never made me a cent, in fact I would lose money most times I put them on, so it’s hard to pitch to others,” he said.

While Mr Harvey’s immediate focus is on his recovery, he remains optimistic about the future.

“I’ll be out of action for a year or so but you definitely haven’t seen the last of me,” he said.

“I’ll be back doing what I love in time and I’m sure I’ll start a couple of side hustles to keep me busy.

“A T-shirt company is the current project I’m working on.”

Troy Harvey is stepping back to focus on recovery and hoping to pass the torch to keep Bundaberg’s community spirit alive.

Mr Harvey is deeply appreciative of the support he has already received from his community.

However, he still faces significant challenges, particularly related to the financial costs of travel for his family to visit him in Brisbane.

To support Troy, visit his GoFundMe page, share the word, and if you can, buy a shirt when his ‘side hustle’ launches.