For many, New Year’s Eve is a time to reflect on the last 12 months before starting the new year ahead.
One of those people looking back at the year that has passed is former Home and Away star Johnny Ruffo, who took to social media to give fans and loved ones a raw glimpse into his year following his terminal cancer diagnosis.
Taking to Instagram on December 31, the 34-year-old entertainer left followers emotional after sharing a tear-jerking video montage of his cancer journey.
“Happy New Year everyone, hope you all have a wonderful 2023!” the video’s caption read.
Not one to sugarcoat the realities of his life and diagnosis, Ruffo’s video showed the good, the grim, and everything in between that had happened in 2022.
The video features shots of him on dates with his long-term girlfriend Tahnee Sims, clips of him practising for Dancing With The Stars, and pictures of him in the hospital receiving chemotherapy.
Many of Ruffo’s followers were moved by his video and took to the comments to leave touching messages for the actor.
“You’re an inspiration mate. Have a brilliant ‘23. Carna Bombers!!!” fellow Aussie actor Cameron Daddo wrote.
“My husband has just been diagnosed with cancer 🙁 you have shown us just how strong you are and with a real will to live Johnny, you are an inspiration to many! Happy New Year,” a fan said.
“Way to make me cry. Some beautiful and tough memories in there. Happy new year guys xx,” added another.
“Sending love and prayers to you Johnny Ruffo thank you for sharing your journey so far loved your book may you always have the strength to deal with your health issues,” another fan commented.
Last year, Ruffo shocked fans after announcing that the diagnosis of his second bout of cancer was terminal, but reassured everyone that he was “powering through” his battle.
Despite outliving the original three-year life expectancy he was given, Ruffo had previously admitted he tries to avoid thinking about the future.
“At some point, it will get me but I’m still fighting. Still kicking on…I’m already winning. My goal now is to try and help as many people as I can and also live a happy life,” he said.
Despite not wanting to think about the future, the actor has already frozen his sperm in the hopes of having children and has even hinted at “getting engaged” to Sims.
Prior to the end of the year, Ruffo also celebrated another milestone in his cancer battle, having “made it through” his last chemotherapy treatment for 2022.