Living with bowel cancer: Natalie’s story

By Emily Usher | 3 March 2025

When Natalie was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer at just 39 years old, it was a shock to her and everyone around her. Now an advocate for early detection, Natalie is urging others to be proactive about their bowel health.

Natalie Phong, who is living with bowel cancer, and her sons. Image: Supplied

When Natalie Phong, a 39-year-old mum of two from Sydney, first started experiencing a sharp pain across her abdomen, she wrote it off as a stomach ache. But when it didn’t subside, her loved ones stepped in and took action. "It was a pain unlike any I had experienced before," Natalie recalls. "I remember my mum having to drag me to the emergency department. At first, even the nurses thought it was appendicitis."

Sadly, the reality was far more serious. A series of tests revealed an 11cm mass on Natalie’s right ovary. Following further consultation with doctors, she underwent surgery. The oncologist initially thought it might be a non-malignant cyst, especially given Natalie’s young age and the absence of any family history of cancer. But after the surgery, the diagnosis took a devastating turn. "It was confirmed that it wasn’t just a cyst—it was cancer," says Natalie. "And to make matters worse, the doctors didn’t believe it was the primary source of the cancer."

An unexpected cancer diagnosis

Two weeks later, Natalie underwent further testing, including a colonoscopy and an endoscopy. By midday that same day, she received life-changing news: a tumour had been found in her large bowel. The discovery led to immediate surgery, which included a hysterectomy and a right hemicolectomy (the removal of 60% of her bowel).

She was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer. "I was only 39, and up until then, I had no signs, no symptoms, and no family history of bowel cancer," says Natalie. "It was the last thing on my mind. I felt completely healthy."

Rapid spread and aggressive cancer treatment

Unfortunately, the situation did not improve after the surgeries. A subsequent PET scan revealed that the cancer had spread to Natalie’s bones, including her left sacrum and right scapula. "The pain was excruciating," she explains. "It was in parts of my body I never expected."

With the cancer spreading so quickly, Natalie’s oncologist decided to begin treatment immediately. Within a week, she started her first of 12 chemotherapy cycles (Folfox 6), and in addition, she received five sessions of radiotherapy to manage the pain.

"The last few months have been a whirlwind," Natalie admits. "But I feel incredibly blessed to have an amazing support system. My husband, my family, my friends, and even my workplace have been there for me every step of the way. It’s humbling to know so many people are rooting for me."

Bowel cancer doesn’t discriminate

Natalie Phong with her sons and husband. Image: Supplied

Natalie’s diagnosis serves as a powerful reminder that bowel cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or family history. It is one of the most common types of cancer in Australia, with more than 15,000 diagnoses each year. While it is more commonly found in people over the age of 50, about 10% of bowel cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals under 50.

"Before my diagnosis, I had no reason to suspect bowel cancer. I had no symptoms, and it wasn’t in my family," says Natalie. "I think my story really shows that bowel cancer can affect anyone, and it’s something we need to be more aware of, regardless of our age or family history."

The importance of early cancer detection and open conversations

She also encourages everyone to take advantage of life-saving screening programs like the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), which provides a free screening test to eligible people every two years. You are eligible to participate if you: 

• are aged 45 to 74
• have a Medicare card and are either an Australian citizen, permanent migrant, or register as a Department of Veteran Affairs customer 
• have an Australian mailing address

People aged 50 to 74 receive a bowel cancer screening kit in the post every 2 years.

Younger people aged 45 to 49 can request their first bowel cancer screening kit by submitting a webform or calling 1800 627 701.

All eligible people can speak to their GP about obtaining a screening test. 

A call for bowel cancer awareness

Natalie Phong (centre, front row) with her HUB24 colleagues, outgoing Cure Cancer CEO Nikki Kinloch (centre, back row) and former Head of Fundraising Katrina Rae (far left) at the Cure Cancer office. Image: Supplied

Natalie’s experience has driven her to speak openly about bowel cancer, hoping to break the stigma and encourage others to be proactive about their health. "Bowel cancer doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care about age or family history. It’s a silent disease, and by the time it’s diagnosed, it can often be too late."

For Natalie, the key to making a difference is raising awareness and encouraging people to have conversations that might not always feel comfortable. "It might feel awkward, but talking about our poos and bowel health can be life-saving," she says. "If we can break down the barriers around these conversations, we can help save lives."

Natalie's hope for the future

Natalie’s journey is far from over. But she remains hopeful, with the support of her family, friends and medical team.

"The road ahead may be tough, but I’m grateful for every day, and I’m thankful for all the love and support I’ve received," she says. "If my story can help even one person get diagnosed early, then I know it’s all worth it."