John Eussen has used his long-standing and highly respected career in the design and lifestyle industry as a platform to help people not only improve their homes and personal brands, but also to improve their health.
John was only 14 when his mother was diagnosed with bowel cancer, the same disease that claimed the lives of his grandfather and both his grandfather’s brothers.
As a legacy to his mum, John has been leveraging his public profile to raise awareness and funds for Bowel Cancer Australia since 2015.
“With a lifelong connection to bowel cancer, I know the impact it has on the entire family and I’m working with Bowel Cancer Australia to try and minimise that for other families.”
John played a key role in the success of Bowel Cancer Australia’s Big Bowel Tour and regularly uses public speaking engagements and his social media channels to encourage others to proactively manage their bowel cancer risk.
Known to many as the presenter of Grand Designs Live Australia, John has been a regular guest on Radio 2UE, the Body and Soul Program on 106.5FM, Channel Ten's Studio 10 and Sky News Australia.
He is a key influencer in the design industry, writing articles for the Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, is a regular columnist for several industry trade magazines, and has a growing following as a social media influencer.
If you were inspired by John’s awareness and fundraising activities and would like to support Bowel Cancer Australia through a company fundraiser or event in your workplace get in touch with us on 02 9923 8269 or through our webform.
"Bowel cancer has been a very big part of my life, so I have no difficulties talking about this common cancer," said John.
"Mum was 42 when she was diagnosed but went on to live until the age of 77.”
“She was a great testament that you can live with cancer. She was lucky – for some the cancer is more aggressive.”
“My brother was also diagnosed with bowel cancer at 48, but has gone on to make a full recovery," said John.
"A family history doesn't mean you'll definitely develop bowel cancer but why would you take the risk? That's a message I'm keen to get out to others."
"Our risk is higher than the everyday person but knowing that means we can act on it. I certainly have. For me, it meant colonoscopies began in my 30s and will continue throughout my life."
"People need to know what their risks are, they need to understand the processes involved whether it's a colonoscopy or major surgery and ask questions."
"Talk to people, listen to different scenarios but then ensure you have the facts. The Bowel Cancer Australia website is a really comprehensive resource and then there's nurses if you want to discuss things further," said John.
