Join us as we talk to Jo Newton.

Jo had just moved to Ireland for a 6 month placement while completing her PhD on teenage pregnancy in sheep when she began experiencing persistent bloating and fatigue. A visit to a GP who truly listened led to a colonoscopy and then, the life altering words: “You have bowel cancer,” delivered the week of her 30th birthday.

She underwent treatment, and just as she began to look ahead and plan for the future, Jo was diagnosed with lymphoedema—a lifelong, incurable condition.

Jo speaks candidly about navigating a cancer diagnosis at such a young age and the physical and emotional toll it has taken. With bowel cancer being one of the most deadliest cancers among Australians aged 25-44, Jo now channels her experience into advocacy, raising awareness about bowel cancer and the need for more research. She was also selected as one of 50 young people to take part in the Call on Canberra.

LINKS

https://www.ncsr.gov.au/information-for-participants/request-a-free-bowel-test-kit.html

https://cancerat30.home.blog/about-me/

https://www.cancerchicks.org.au/

https://thebigcpodcast.com/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as we talk to Nadine Pike.

Nadine opens up about losing her mum to breast cancer after a seven year battle. While her friends were off exploring the world in their 20s, Nadine was at home, caring for her mum and supporting her dad, all while trying to make sense of an illness no one really talked about. Her mum kept the details private and Nadine carried the guilt of not asking more questions.

Grief wasn’t something Nadine had the space or tools to face back then, so she tucked it away, carrying on as best she could. Even 25 years later, the ache remains - especially around milestones where she longs for her mum’s presence the most. Birthdays are the hardest, quiet reminders of all the moments she wishes she could have shared with her best friend.

LINKS

https://thebigcpodcast.com/

https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/breastscreen-australia-program/having-a-breast-screen/book-your-free-breastscreen-mammogram-appointment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as we talk to Lisa Vergadin.

At just 30 years old, Lisa’s world was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with stage 4 cervical cancer. Doctors not only told her she had cancer but that she would not be able to have have children. For Lisa and her partner, it felt like their dreams had been shattered.

Originally from Italy and living in Australia on a visa that made her ineligible for Medicare, Lisa faced challenges navigating treatment, finances, and the emotional toll of her diagnosis. But she refused to accept the limits placed on her future.

Lisa shares her perspective on life, emphasising the importance of cherishing small moments, creating meaningful memories with others, and being mindful of where she invests her energy.

LINKS

https://www.cancerchicks.org.au/

https://thebigcpodcast.com/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.