Snezana’s story

After celebrating my 50th birthday I received the national bowel screening test in the mail. I was keen to participate as my husband has already participated in the program for the last 6 years with no issues. We lead a healthy and active lifestyle, so I had no concerns or issues completing the two samples as it was straight forward and hygienic.

Sent off my samples and did not give it another thought. About a month later the results came back as positive samples and I was referred for a colonoscopy.

From the samples taken in the colonoscopy my life changed significantly. I had doctors appointments, tests, scans etc over the next month or so and then the results came back as Stage 1 possibly Stage 2. At this stage I was still very optimistic that surgery would remove the cancer, and I would be back on my feet and back to work in a couple of months.

Surgery was booked and an MRI scan arranged prior to surgery showing a lesion on my liver the morning of surgery. There was no time to process this new information as I was already prepped for surgery.

After a lengthy surgery to remove the cancer from the sigmoid colon section and 1/4 of my liver it was discovered I had Stage 4 bowel cancer. The recovery from surgery was tough physically but I knew I was in good hands and just needed to focus on one day at a time. Then came the news I would be starting 12 rounds of chemo.

Physically the chemo and side effects have been challenging, you no longer have the strength or energy to do everyday things as you did before. Mentally I feel I have the strength and positivity to beat the effects of Stage 4 cancer and all that comes with it.

I stay focused in the little accomplishments such as getting up each day and taking my dogs for a walk whether it be just a short one on not so good days or a longer walk in the good days. Having a wonderful, amazing and loving husband, daughter and a core of truly amazing friends in my life has helped me to stay strong, positive and take each day as it comes and to count the blessings.

At the time of writing this I have done 8 out 12 rounds of chemo which has taken a toll on my body, and I am currently in hospital fighting a chest infection and bilateral blood clots on the lungs. The treatment so far has not been without its challenges physically especially with the neutrophilia causing delays in treatments.

I cannot thank the cancer clinic and all the medical teams I’m working with enough for how supportive, compassionate and the level of care shown not only to me but to other cancer patients too.

Staying positive, being active as much as possible and focusing on the little accomplishments each day goes a long way to getting through what is a very challenging journey.

My one piece of advice: Seeing the positives in every situation, seek out support whether it’s emotional or physical. Focus on the little things you can do and rest, it’s so important for recovery. Look for that little bit of sunshine in each day.