Patrick shares inspirational cancer story to Wildcats

A little over two years since he was diagnosed with breast cancer, which affects 200 men every years in Australia, Gallagher shared his inspirational story and an important message.

The usually-buzzing Bendat Basketball Centre showcourts were a little quieter than usual as players, coaches and support staff listened intently to every word the New Zealander had to say.

"It was great, I really appreciated their attention and I could see it in their eyes," Gallagher reflected.

"It was an honour just to be here, and to push the awareness out there for a male, I feel a lot better and it gave me great purpose today."

Gallagher emphasied the importance of early detection, something that he didn't do himself despite a few warning signs.

He praised the support of Breast Cancer Care WA, the Wildcats' charity partner for the Pink Game which is entering its seventh year, for helping him through a "lonely and scary" time.

"It's very important, we all have that stubbornness as men and we think we know better," he said.

"It was all a grey area for me, it was a walk into darkness. We listened to the doctors and just ran with it but we didn't really know too much about it, we just know about the sad part of others passing on this.

"It was a very lonely, scary thing actually but with the great care of Breast Cancer Care WA, they were just so good.

"The medical team was so nice with their reassurance, it's made life way easier. That's why I'm here today."

Gallagher gave a positive update on his condition, saying he was hopeful of getting back into work, but admits there's still a lot of unknowns ahead.

"Present-day status is slowly but surely trying to get stronger and get back into work and to feel part of it all," Gallagher said.

"I don't know really what's in front of me, I'm just taking it as it comes, but the support I've received is 100 per cent awesome."

Gallagher, who received a special pink jersey from Wildcats captain Jesse Wagstaff, and shared a nice moment with fellow New Zealander Hyrum Harris after his speech, will be a special guest at Friday night's clash against the 36ers along with his family and the Breast Cancer Care WA team.

Since 2000, Breast Cancer Care WA has provided specialist breast care nursing, counselling, and financial support to women and men affected by breast cancer, as well as their partners and families, throughout the WA community.

To donate to BCCWA, bid on game-worn Wildcats pink jerseys and more, visit pink.wildcats.com.au