Kimberley Silk

65 .... that's the number of rounds of chemotherapy (so far) that my brother and father have undergone in their respective battles against bowel cancer.

5 years ago, just 3 days before his 40th birthday, my brother Anthony was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer. He was a fitness professional and young father and his life was turned upside down and inside out in the blink of an eye. Despite symptoms only appearing less than 2 months before diagnosis, the cancer had already spread to his liver and has since spread to his abdomen and lymph nodes. Since his diagnosis, he has undergone 53 rounds of chemotherapy, one bowel resection, three liver resections and a peritonectomy which have extended his life far longer than we were told was possible.

As you would expect, my family has been vigilant about screening for this disease ever since. However, late last year my Dad was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer despite having a clear colonoscopy only 2 years earlier. He has had a full bowel resection, completed 12 rounds of chemo and is now showing nil evidence of disease. Early detection was key and no doubt saved his life.

Inspired by my brother's love of fitness, and in an effort to support him in what's become his life's work, my sister and I are taking to the Fleet Steps at Mrs Macquarie's Chair on Monday 14 October to conquer 65 flights. We would love to amplify the impact and have anyone who is keen to join us at the Fleet Steps at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair at 11am on 14 October. 

Donations made through this platform are secure and will be remitted directly through to Bowel Cancer Australia. 

Thanks so much for your support!