COFFS Harbour’s Coffs Colon Care (CCC) support group is raising awareness of bowel cancer and Red Apple Day.
Organised by Bowel Cancer Australia, Red Apple Day (18 June) is aimed at raising funds for research and providing support services including free access to bowel cancer nurses, nutritionists, stoma and psychosocial support, and exercise physiologists.
Bowel cancer is the second deadliest cancer in Australia and is increasingly affecting younger people.
This year, the CEO of Baringa Private Hospital and Ramsay Surgical Centre, Jo Brown, is backing CCC’s efforts.
“Baringa is proud to support this initiative to raise awareness about bowel cancer and the importance of screening,” Ms Brown said.
“We provide comprehensive care – from colonoscopies to surgery and chemotherapy.”
Early detection is critical for successful treatment and recovery.
“Coffs Harbour is fortunate to have highly skilled colorectal surgeons like Dr Andrew Sutherland and Dr Wilson Petrushnko, who operate in both public and private hospitals,” CCC member Sharen Hackfath told News Of The Area.
“While bowel cancer isn’t a popular topic, CCC has become a vital support network where members can share experiences and find comfort in community.”
The group meets regularly and welcomes anyone needing support.
Find them on Facebook to get involved.
This year, CCC member Julie Williams shared her story of surviving bowel cancer.
“I don’t see myself as a warrior – more a lab rat,” Ms Williams said.
“I’m a survivor, thanks to the real warriors who helped me through.”
Julie was preparing to celebrate five years free from breast cancer when she was diagnosed in 2019 with both bowel and thyroid cancers.
After surgeries and a period of stability, her bowel cancer metastasised to her liver in 2020 – Stage 4.
Following more surgery performed by Dr Charbel Sandroussi in Sydney and chemotherapy, Julie is now five years cancer-free.
“My motto, from Galaxy Quest, has been: ‘Never Give Up; Never Surrender.’
“That mindset, and the incredible care I received, got me through.”
Julie credits her survival to “Australia’s healthcare system, outstanding specialists, to all the caring staff at the Cancer Clinic at Coffs Health Campus, to my oncologists, and support from my husband Alph and dog Pearl.”
Julie stressed the importance of early detection, knowing that excellent treatment is available through the public system, and urges others to stay alert.
“If you’ve been diagnosed, be kind to yourself, seek support, and stay focused on the light at the end of the tunnel.
“If you think this doesn’t affect you, think again.
“Bowel cancer doesn’t discriminate – it can strike the young, the fit, and anyone in between.
“Awareness saves lives.”
CCC members Sharen Hackfath, Donna Harper, and others will be at Baringa Hospital on Wednesday 18 June and at the Plaza near Woolworths on Thursday 19 June.
“Come say hello, share your story, buy a ribbon, or make a donation to this life-saving cause,” Ms Hackfath said.
By Andrea FERRARI
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