It was last October when Dawesville resident Brian Pearcey received the shocking news that he had stage three rectal cancer.
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"Since my diagnosis, I've undergone chemo and radiation and I have surgery booked in towards the end of July, and will need more treatment after that too," he said.
"The scariest part is I had absolutely no idea - I didn't experience any of the symptoms associated with bowel cancer.
"I was fit and healthy and it wasn't until I took the test that the cancer was detected."
Brian's story is just one of many in Australia with statistics putting the number of people diagnosed with bowel cancer at 15,325 cases a year.
With a staggering six out of 10 home bowel cancer test kits never being returned, Brian is now urging other Peel residents to take part in the national free bowel cancer screening test.
"I can't stress how critical it is for people to do the test," he said.
"Don't throw it away or let it sit somewhere in your house collecting dust. For your own health, just do it. It's so easy and it could save your life."
I was fit and healthy and it wasn't until I took the test that the cancer was detected.
- Dawesville resident Brian Pearcey
Cancer Council WA bowel cancer screening coordinator Catalina Lizama said Brian's story is an important reminder to the community to take the test when it arrives at your home.
"Brian's story should be a wake-up call to everyone," she said.
"Just as Brian discovered, bowel cancer often develops without symptoms, yet a staggering six out of 10 home test kits are never returned.
"Take this as your reminder to do the test. Get it out of your drawer or order another one by calling the 1800 118 868 if you've thrown it away.
"The earlier bowel cancer is found, the greater the chance of successful treatment."
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As a direct result of Brian's advocacy for the bowel cancer screening tests, Mrs Lizama is set to hold a bowel cancer awareness presentation for all residents at the lifestyle resort where Brian lives.
If you or someone you know has been affected by bowel cancer and would like to arrange a free bowel cancer screening awareness presentation, please email catalina.lizama@cancerwa.asn.au or call (08) 9212 4360.
