Peyton H – City-Bay Fun Run

“This year I ran 12km in Adelaide’s City-Bay for Bowel Cancer Australia. I ran for my Dad, and all those impacted by bowel cancer. I’m so proud (and grateful) to have raised $3000 for such a great cause. Despite the rain, it was a fantastic run and such a meaningful experience.

Earlier this year, my dad was diagnosed with Stage 2 bowel cancer. Despite his low iron and a positive FOBT – he didn’t have any alarming symptoms. He lived a fit and active lifestyle, including regular colonoscopies. His GP referred him for a colonoscopy, even though he was due for one next year. He underwent the colonoscopy but was referred to another specialist who could remove a growth found through a technique called EMR. Another round of bowel prep was done, and dad woke to be told biopsies had been taken, a slip for a CT staging scan and had been given an Iron Transfusion.

The biopsy confirmed cancer. The next couple of weeks consisted of a CT scan, PET scan and planning for surgery. Dad underwent a left hemicolectomy, a week-long hospital stay and a lengthy recovery. No lymph nodes were positive; therefore, he didn’t require chemotherapy, but genetic testing did confirm Lynch Syndrome.

Dad has recovered remarkably well and is happy to report he is back on the golf course!

It is such a powerful reminder that life can change at any moment. So please – hug your loved ones tight, check your poo and do that Bowel Screening Kit! ~ Peyton.

If you were inspired by Peyton’s awareness and fundraising efforts and would like to support Bowel Cancer Australia, please get in touch with us through our webform.