On 24th December 2022, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 bowel cancer. For six months leading up to that point, I felt unwell and was repeatedly told that I was 'too young' for certain diseases or conditions. On 9th January 2023, I underwent a right hemicolectomy, and since that moment, I have been driven to help others facing similar challenges.

It is a common misconception that bowel cancer is 'an old person's disease,' but the truth is no one is too young to have bowel cancer. While most newly diagnosed bowel cancer cases occur in individuals aged 50 and over, approximately 1 in 10 (10.7%) Australians diagnosed with this disease are under the age of 50.

Bowel Cancer Australia is the leading community-funded charity dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, research, quality treatment, and providing the best care for everyone affected by bowel cancer. Your donations are vital in supporting their incredible work, which includes:

Challenging perceptions through dynamic campaigns that raise awareness and inspire action

Enhancing health knowledge through the provision of practical information and programs

Advocacy for what matters most to those affected by bowel cancer, empowering them with tools and knowledge for self-advocacy

Providing practical and emotional support for the growing number of Australians battling bowel cancer, fostering communities through shared experiences, and creating a powerful voice for change

Campaigning for access to quality treatment and care, ensuring more individuals live beyond bowel cancer

Funding research to discover a cure for bowel cancer

Please join me in making a difference. Any donation will have an impact. Thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause, which holds immense personal significance for me.

You can follow my journey on Instagram @brendangivesacrap and learn more about how your support of Bowel Cancer Australia contributes meaningfully and provides measurable benefits by visiting bowelcanceraustraliaimpact.org.

Thank you once again, and remember: break the taboo, and check your poo!