06/08/2026
Since March this year, life has looked very different to what I expected.
What started as a routine colonoscopy uncovered a small neuroendocrine tumour. I had no symptoms and no reason to think anything was wrong. It was found early, almost by accident.
Since then, it's been a journey of specialist appointments, tests, scans, three surgeries, and a referral from my regional general surgeon to the incredible team at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne, where I'll have one more surgery before moving to ongoing monitoring.
It's not a journey anyone asks for, but it has reminded me of a few things.
First, early detection changes everything. Because my tumour was found so early, my outlook is very positive, and I'm incredibly grateful for that.
Second, life doesn't stop while you're navigating health challenges. Business still needs to run. Clients still need support. Family life continues. There have been moments of uncertainty, disappointment and frustration, but also moments of deep gratitude - for exceptional healthcare, the support of family and friends, and the privilege of being able to keep doing work I genuinely love.
And finally, it's reinforced something I often talk about with my clients: we can't always choose what happens to us, but we can choose how we respond.
Many of us are brilliant at looking after everyone else while putting our own wellbeing at the bottom of the list. We delay the check-up, ignore the symptoms, or convince ourselves we'll get around to it "when things quieten down."
Please don't.
If you've been putting off a bowel screening test, colonoscopy, mammogram, skin check, prostate check or any other recommended health screening, book it.
Mine was found early because I said yes to a routine procedure.
That decision has almost certainly changed the course of my life.
Sometimes the most important appointment you'll ever make is the one you've been avoiding.
If sharing my experience encourages even one person to book their health check, it'll be worth it.
N xo See less
