Jamie’s story in memory of Josie

My wife Josie was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer in October 2020. At the time of diagnosis, she was too young to participate in the National Bowel Screening Program.

There were very little warning signs apart from the fact that she was tired and had a low iron count. She had been on iron tablets for quite a few years.

We lost her in June 2022 after a 20-month battle which included fortnightly chemotherapy.

She was positive and beautiful all through this awful time. Her reactions to the chemo were quite manageable and for 18 months the treatment was relatively routine.

Her decline over the last few weeks of her life was confronting. After being admitted to palliative care on Tuesday 7 June, she died on Thursday 9 June. It was devastating for all of us who knew and loved her.

My one piece of advice: If you have low iron, insist on a screen for bowel cancer.

Lobby the government to lower the age of the National Bowel Screening Program.

The provision of a dedicated Bowel Care Nurses would have been so helpful, and I am pleased to see that this is an aim of Bowel Cancer Australia.

Stay as positive as you can but don’t be afraid to cry and share your fears with those you love and trust.