Leesa K’s story

At just 35 years old, I was diagnosed with Stage 3C bowel cancer – an unexpected shock for someone so young. I had two young children, a family who relied on me, and dreams I hadn’t yet fulfilled. But in the face of it all, I knew I had no choice but to fight.

Within 24 hours of my diagnosis, I was in surgery. It was just the beginning of a long and challenging road ahead. Three weeks later, I had a port placed, preparing me for the brutal reality of chemotherapy. All of this during COVID – an isolating time where I couldn’t always have the support I needed.

But through it all, I was determined. Even though there were moments when I was alone, there were also those moments when my family and friends stood by me, providing strength when I had none.

Each chemo session felt like a battle, but with every step forward, I found myself more determined to be there for my children, to see their milestones, and to be there for my family – especially when I didn’t know what the future would hold.

Today, I’m here – grateful for the chance to witness my children’s growth, to celebrate life’s little victories, and to share my story with the world. Bowel Cancer Australia’s Kick Ass campaign is about strength, survival, and awareness. It’s a reminder that cancer doesn’t care who you are, but we can care about how we fight it – together.

No one fights alone. Bowel cancer is real, and we can make a difference by raising awareness. Let’s get loud. Let’s get real. Let’s kick cancer’s ass.’

My one piece of advice: No one fights alone. Even in your darkest moments there will be people helping you through. You are stronger than you thought.

2026 Update:

At 35 years old, with two young children, I was diagnosed with Stage 3C bowel cancer.

Before my diagnosis, I had symptoms including fatigue, back pain, and difficulty gaining weight. As a busy mum who had recently had babies and was breastfeeding, these symptoms were repeatedly dismissed as ‘normal’ post-baby exhaustion. Thankfully, one GP finally took me seriously and referred me for a colonoscopy — a decision that ultimately saved my life.

I still remember waking up after the procedure feeling confused. Other patients were drinking water, getting dressed, and going home. Then the doctor came over and told me the words no one expects to hear: ‘You have bowel cancer.’

The devastation that followed was overwhelming. Making those phone calls to my husband and parents was one of the most painful moments of my life. Overnight, everything changed.

Within 24 hours, I had undergone a PET scan and bowel resection surgery. Several lymph nodes were found to contain cancer, confirming a Stage 3C diagnosis. Soon after, I had a port inserted and began seven months of chemotherapy — all while caring for my two children.

It was the hardest chapter of my life, but I kept going for my kids.

I could not have survived that time without the incredible support of my parents, grandparents, aunty, and best friend, who helped care for my children and carried us through the darkest days.

Life is good now, and I am incredibly grateful. But survivorship comes with its own challenges — the constant worry, the anxiety, the ‘what ifs’ that creep in with every ache and pain.

This Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, I want people to know that bowel cancer does not just affect older people. Young people and young parents can get bowel cancer too. Please listen to your body, advocate for yourself, and never ignore persistent symptoms.

My one piece of advice:

This Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, I want people to know that bowel cancer does not just affect older people. Young people and young parents can get bowel cancer too. Please listen to your body, advocate for yourself, and never ignore persistent symptoms.