Julia, Australia

Today on World Cancer Day I am sharing my story to support those affected by cancer. 

On November 4th 2024 cancer turned my world upside when I was diagnosed with stage 3 Bowel Cancer. My family’s plans have been put on hold while we navigate this scary time. 

Treatments  have included surgery and I am currently undergoing chemotherapy. Cancer is a complete roller coaster of physical and mental challenges which are completely unpredictable in their timing and severity. Having supportive people on standby has been the most important thing for me. I am incredibly lucky to have a supportive husband, 3 resilient children, wonderful parents, family and friends. 

I often think of the people who don’t have such support and today I am advocating  for all bowel cancer patients to have their own bowel cancer nurse to help navigate the cancer journey. 

Bowel cancer is the deadliest cancer for Australians aged 25-44. The risk of being diagnosed with bowel cancer before the age of 40 has more than doubled since the year 2000 and they don’t know why. 
Early diagnosis of bowel cancer is key and results in high survival rates.