Tara’s story

I’d been having symptoms for a few months when my GP referred me to a Gastroenterologist. A few months after that, I had a colonoscopy. We weren’t in a rush, as we thought my symptoms were attributed to my long-standing IBS.

When I woke from my scope, I was delivered the news that no one wants to hear. ‘You have cancer in your sigmoid colon’. After having a CT, MRI and bloods taken, I was referred for surgery and had an anterior resection in January 2024.

Initially my surgical team thought that surgery alone would be sufficient, but when the pathology on my tumour returned, there were some red flags for recurrence. I was referred to a lovely and very supportive Oncologist and began 6 months of chemotherapy. I finished chemotherapy with NED (No evidence of disease) and I was able to go back to my Teacher Aide role full time at the start of Term 4 in 2024.

I am now in the surveillance phase of my treatment which involves scans, bloods and appointments with my surgical team and Oncologist. I’ll also be having regular colonoscopies.

I am so grateful to have had access to many wonderful doctors, nurses and allied heath professionals to support me to get back to being myself again. Some of which have included dieticians, nutritionists, physios, exercise physios, cancer and Bowel Care Nurses and an Oncology Psychologist who has played an integral role in my recovery. It really has been a team effort.

Bowel Cancer Australia have been a wonderful support to me over the last year. I have spoken to the nurses and nutritionists who have given me excellent advice and support. I’m also a member of Bowel Cancer Australia’s Facebook communities “The Movement” and “Meaningful Movement”.

My one piece of advice:

Bowel cancer was never on my radar as an active 40 year old. Know the signs, trust your gut and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Because you are #never2young for bowel cancer.