Dr Laurence Lepherd experienced cancer and became interested in the way men with prostate cancer use their spiritually during their illness. He undertook research in this area. He has held the positions of Associate Professor and Associate Dean in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Southern Queensland. He is a Fellow of the Australian College of Educators. Since retirement he has been appointed as an Honorary Associate Professor at the University. He has been a volunteer pastoral carer in the Queensland Health system, and also been involved in the Cancer Connect and Community Education programs of Cancer Council Queensland.