Turning 50 I received the bowel screen kit from the government. After doing the test I couldn’t believe I received a positive result. Having completely no symptoms, perfectly healthy with a busy life, I was sent for a colonoscopy. When I woke up from the procedure, I was confronted with the terrible words… you have cancer!

Immediately I was scheduled for surgery where 17cm of my bowel was removed. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 sigmoid colon cancer with traces of cancer in two lymph nodes.

To say that my world stop spinning is an understatement. Although it was good news that the cancer was removed, my fight wasn’t over. Having to have PET scans to ensure that the cancer hadn’t spread, and then six months of chemo.

I am currently halfway through the chemo process, so I’m sick most days and completely exhausted.

To say that - it feels like everyone is living their lives around me and I’m just surviving every day.

I have an incredible support network that I would be lost without. This diagnosis has definitely tested my marriage, my friendships and my beliefs.

I value each day that I wake up and would strongly suggest that everyone that receives the bowel test kit…. DO IT. Do not put it in the drawer this cancer is the silent killer.

My one piece of advice for others:

Do the bowel cancer screen from the government. It’s completely free and will save your life!!!!!!