Bowel cancer champion
“Make the time to have a yarn with your GP sooner rather than later for peace of mind.”
Annette’s story
In August 2023, Annette was visiting family in Queensland for her grandchild’s birthday. A time filled with joy and connection. What she didn’t expect was a call from the hospital that would change the course of her life.
Annette had been scheduled for unrelated surgery and, as part of the preparation, had a routine blood test. It revealed extremely low iron levels. Her GP in Karratha recommended an iron infusion and suggested she get a colonoscopy while visiting family in Queensland, where it could be done faster, as she already had these travel plans in place. Annette went ahead with the colonoscopy, and the results were shocking.
Annette experienced weight loss and fatigue, which she initially attributed to her efforts to lose weight in preparation for an upcoming surgery.
Annette was diagnosed with stage II bowel cancer, completely unrelated to her first cancer diagnosis back in the 1990s. Her surgery went ahead in October 2023, on the anniversary of her husband’s passing. It was an emotional time, but thanks to early diagnosis, Annette avoided further treatment.
A lifelong educator, she now advocates for early diagnosis of cancer.
“Your life is too valuable to your family, culture, and community to risk. Every one of us is worth protecting, and the kindest thing you can do is take care of your health. Don’t dismiss a symptom, and don’t put off that bowel screening kit. Take care of yourself, because you’re worth it.”
Returning to WA to recover on her own was tough, but she reached out and found counselling and group support. She credits her recovery to the love of her family, supportive friends, and a great GP in Queensland. She’s now back at work full-time and enjoying life again.
Annette’s advice:
“Make the time to have a yarn with your GP sooner rather than later for peace of mind.”
