I am a 41yo survivor of bowel cancer. I have lost two uncles to this insidious disease and I myself came close last year.

After diagnosis and total colectomy in May, I was fortunate to receive a primary olio-rectal join which has seen my recovery not include a stoma.

I am also a wearer of a beard!

Having so many family members affected by terminal bowel cancer, and my survival, I have struggled a little bit with survivor guilt and have been seeking a positive cause to put some energy towards.

I’m supporting Decembeard Australia to contribute towards bowel cancer awareness and hopefully an increase in survivorship once diagnosed. This disease isn’t going away and we must raise awareness.

I was 40, symptom free, and oblivious to the fact I was dying. I am so very lucky!