Susan Schmidt, a mother of two, received a diagnosis of stage four colon cancer in September 2023, merely four months after she had experienced subtle symptoms that she initially dismissed. At that time, she was 45 years old and attributed her severe fatigue to early menopause and the stresses of life.
Despite her background as a physiotherapist and her knowledge of health, she did not consider the possibility of bowel cancer due to the mildness of her symptoms, which included constipation and fatigue. While on vacation in France, Schmidt observed unusual bowel habits but attributed them to the rich food, failing to recognize it as an early warning sign.
Upon her return to Australia, she subsequently experienced severe abdominal pain, which she described as “worse than childbirth.” Although a doctor examined her and cleared her of any issues, Schmidt points out that cancer was not being actively investigated. This oversight played a significant role in her late-stage diagnosis.
Now at the age of 47, Schmidt is advocating for greater transparency regarding bowel-related symptoms, which are frequently stigmatized and overlooked. She emphasizes the necessity of listening to one’s body and persistently seeking answers, even when initial tests appear normal.