GrantFormer GCF chair Grant tells us about his battle with bowel cancer.
Share your Story
Whether you've faced a gut cancer yourself, or supported or lost a loved one through it, your story matters. By sharing your experience, you help others feel less alone, raise awareness of these often-overlooked cancers, and give hope to those who may be just beginning their journey.
Every story adds to a stronger voice calling for earlier detection, better support, and more research.
Stories of hope
LynneLynne knows she is one of the lucky ones - not often a word associated with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the bile ducts.
ShaneHaving beaten stage 4 melanoma with multiple tumours throughout his body and being cancer free for a year. Read Shane's oesophageal cancer story.
RhysRhys contracted Hepatitis C from a blood transfusion after an accident. He was later diagnosed with liver cancer after a tumour developed. Here's his story.
KenKen was diagnosed with Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) after routine blood tests for high blood pressure showed elevated markers for liver function. His GP referred him for an ultrasound scan where a shadow was seen and a later MRI confirmed liver cancer.
HelenHelen says listen to your body. Only you know your body. If you are having health issues keep pursuing, pretend you're a "wee fox terrier chasing a bunny!” Never give up, make someone listen.
JodieJodie's family has a history of bowel cancer, she shares her story to urge others to not ignore symptoms.
MartyConstant reflux and weight loss took Marty to the doctor in October 2024 just before his 40th birthday.
LeilaMy demographic, as a young female with no other health issues made me a very unlikely candidate for this cancer. But I am proof it happens.
Mary's StoryAt 14 years old, no one expected Mary's symptoms to be the cause of Helicobacter Pylori. Read about Mary's road to diagnosis and the link between H.pylori and stomach cancer.
Patient legacies
ElaineElaine dedicated time to encouraging people to seek medical help if they experienced any symptoms. Read Elaine's pancreatic cancer story.
PaulPaul was diagnosed with a cancer in the tail of the pancreas. As one of the founders of Gut Cancer Foundation, his legacy lives on.
KarenPay attention to your bodies and if things change from your normal get them tested and make a nuisance of yourself. Read Karen's story.
NyreeNyree was a passionate advocate for pancreatic cancer support, research and awareness, and spearheaded the Pancreatic Cancer Support Association. Her legacy lives on.
HilaryHilary was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. She passionately shared her journey to raise awareness of the symptoms that took her to the doctor.
Stories from whānau
BrionyMy relationship with Pancreatic Cancer began when my Dad Colin was diagnosed. Read Briony's story.
AndyWith both my parents diagnosed with cancer years apart, I wanted to raise awareness. Read Andy's story.
KellyOn a follow up appointment in July, Dad was given the unexpected news… this was cancer. Read Kelly's story.
BrookeMy Nana was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer which she then also found out it had spread to her liver. Read Brooke's story.
Louisa & LisaIf you’re having frequent problems with chest pain and difficulty swallowing and you’re just being sent away with antibiotics, get a second opinion! Read Louisa & Lisa's story.
KirstenKirsten’s husband James has taken the time to write Kirsten’s story to help raise awareness of the symptoms she experienced and her journey with stomach cancer. Read Jame's story.
SeanSean's parents bravely share his story to help raise awareness of Cholangiocarcinoma, a rare form of gut cancer in the bile ducts of the liver. Read Sean's story.
DamonDamon hoped his story would raise vital awareness of the need for increased funding for treatments for all types of gut cancers. Read Damon's story.
RegSandie's husband Reg was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2019. Sandie is sharing Reg’s story to encourage people to take charge with their health. Read Sandie's story.
MalcomMalcom's wife Loreta shares his story to raise awareness of the signs of oesophageal cancer to promote early detection for better outcomes. Read Malcom's story.
To find support groups in your area, see our pages on:
Patient Support Groups | Rōpū tautoko tūroro
Carer Support Group | Rōpū tautoko Pou Āwhina
