Colon Cancer Awareness

Bowel cancer is often thought of as a disease that affects older people however, that perception is changing. Across Australia and around the world, diagnoses in people under the age of 50 are rising, with around 10–14% of bowel cancer cases now occurring in this younger age group.

Alarmingly, bowel cancer has become one of the leading causes of cancer related death for men under 50 in many developed countries.

In Australia, the overall five-year survival rate for bowel cancer is around 72%. However, outcomes vary greatly depending on how early the disease is detected.

For people diagnosed with metastatic bowel cancer involving the BRAF V600E mutation, survival can be far shorter with studies showing median survival often around 9–14 months in advanced disease.

Anthony was one of those statistics.

Anthony was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic colon cancer with the BRAF V600E mutation and heartbreakingly passed away just nine months later.

Anthony faced his illness with the same courage, strength and generosity that defined his life. Even while navigating his own treatment and uncertainty, Anthony remained focused on others always wanting to help, always thinking about how he could make a difference.

Anthony’s passing has left an enormous void in our family but it has strengthened our determination to carry forward the kindness, compassion and practical support that Anthony gave so freely throughout his life.

Through this foundation, we hope not only to support individuals and families facing hardship, but also to raise awareness about the growing impact of bowel cancer in younger Australians. Stories like Anthony’s are becoming far too common.

If sharing Anthony’s story encourages even one person to listen to their body, seek medical advice sooner or support someone facing cancer, then Anthony’s legacy continues to make a difference.

Through every individual we support, Anthony’s spirit of generosity lives on.