In the face of unimaginable personal tragedy, Wallsend Seventh Day Adventist pastor David Riley is choosing to celebrate life and inspire others through the launch of his first book, documenting an extraordinary family adventure around Australia.
A Journey Inspired by History
Four years ago, David Riley embarked on what he describes as a remarkable family journey, retracing the epic 1925 quest of West Australian mates Nevill Westwood and Greg Davies. These two young men, aged just 21 at the time, set out from Perth in a 1923 two-seater Citroen 2CV on a mission for their church.
The original adventurers completed their circumnavigation of Australia without maps, GPS, or proper roads for much of their route, becoming the first car to drive around the continent. Their vehicle, affectionately named Bubsie, had less horsepower than a modern lawnmower and no air conditioning.
Mr Riley, a self-proclaimed history buff, became fascinated with this story but discovered no book existed documenting the incredible journey. "When I called the Citroen car club in WA they confirmed one didn't exist," Mr Riley recalls. "The bloke said, 'Well, maybe you're meant to write it.' I thought, well, maybe I am."
Family Tragedy Strikes Twice
Earlier this year, the Riley family's world was shattered when David's 17-year-old daughter Jessica was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. The vibrant teenager passed away in May, leaving her family and community devastated.
Tragedy compounded when in September, Mr Riley received his own devastating diagnosis: the same aggressive brain cancer that took his daughter's life. Doctors have given him just months to live.
The family discovered through Jessica's illness that she and her father shared a very rare genetic syndrome that prevents their bodies from suppressing cancerous growth like most people. Fortunately, Mr Riley's two other children, Kea and Ted, have not inherited the same condition.
Living with Purpose and Hope
Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, David Riley maintains an astonishingly positive outlook. He continues to make the most of every day while enthusiastically promoting his book, Bubsie and the Boys, which coincidentally launches during the 100th anniversary of the original epic Australian quest that inspired his family's adventure.
His message to others is clear and powerful: whether it's a family trip, a career change, or pursuing a dream, don't put it off. The time to seize opportunities and create meaningful experiences is now.
Mr Riley's approach to his terminal diagnosis embodies the wisdom he shares through his writing and personal example. Rather than retreating from life, he continues to engage fully with his passions, his community, and the legacy he hopes to leave through his book.
The Wallsend pastor's story serves as a poignant reminder of life's fragility and the importance of embracing every moment with courage and purpose, regardless of the challenges one faces.
