At a towering height of 6ft 9ins, adorned in his athletic attire and size 15 shoes, Will Wise presents an imposing figure – exuding an appearance of exceptional fitness and readiness to conquer the world. Yet, appearances can be deceiving. At the young age of 30, Will has been confronted with the diagnosis of a rare and incurable stage four cancer.
Prior to late 2022, Will led a successful career as a professional basketball player, traversing Europe and Australia, and notably playing for the Eastern Mavericks in Australia. However, his life drastically changed overnight when he unexpectedly collapsed, subsequently receiving the devastating diagnosis of a rare adrenal gland tumour, coupled with an additional rare condition identified as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2).
Despite the daunting prognosis, Will has emerged as a resilient force, returning to the basketball court to impart his knowledge to children across West London. Moreover, he has established the #CancerBae movement, which aims to redefine public perceptions of the disease.
Advocating for robust research as the cornerstone of effective treatment and survival, he has fervently embraced Cancer Research UK’s mission to extend and enhance the quality of life, unshackled from the apprehension of cancer. This advocacy underscores the significance of early detection, access to efficacious treatments, and robust efforts in cancer prevention.
Residing in Kensington with his fiancée, Australian singer-songwriter Alex Hosking, Will is committed to disseminating awareness and offering support, underscoring the creed that life retains its value even in the face of stage four cancer. He fervently advocates for candid discussions regarding the challenges associated with cancer, with a determined ambition to dismantle the disconcerting stigma surrounding the disease.
Across the globe, Alex shares in Will’s optimistic outlook, emphasizing the imperative nature of maintaining a positive and buoyant disposition despite the initial shock of the diagnosis. Their candid and positive social media posts epitomize their steadfast determination to savor life’s ordinary moments, in defiance of the formidable challenges that confront them.
Their shared experiences have engendered within them a renewed perspective on life, reinforcing their unwavering commitment to seize every opportunity and relish every moment. Through their #CancerBae movement, they have amassed a considerable following on TikTok and Instagram, and their remarkable narrative has garnered international media coverage.
Will’s own encounter with cancer commenced abruptly, devoid of any forewarning symptoms until the moment when he collapsed, precipitating a life-threatening predicament. Notwithstanding his arduous journey, he has undergone surgeries and continues to confront the disease with unwavering fortitude and resolve. His narrative stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human condition and the potent force of hope in the midst of adversity.
The awe-inspiring odyssey of Will Wise and the #CancerBae movement stands as a compelling reminder to seize each moment, live life to the fullest, and extend support to those navigating the arduous terrain of cancer. Their optimistic perspective and determined effort to redefine the narrative surrounding cancer extend hope and inspiration to countless others waging similar battles.