This weekend, Bec will take part in her 8th The JLF Trek & Trail Run (formerly The JLF Trek).

This powerful milestone also marks eight years since she was diagnosed with Stage 3B bowel cancer at just 39.

Back in 2018, Bec, a busy mum of three, was juggling work and family, when she began experiencing fatigue, discomfort and pain before bowel movements, along with occasional bleeding.

The first GP she saw suggested it was likely gastro or haemorrhoids and recommended a FODMAP diet and increased fibre intake. A second GP diagnosed diverticulitis based on a CT scan and advised dietary changes. But the discomfort persisted – and Bec trusted her instincts.

It was a third GP who took a closer look, ordered more tests, and recommended a colonoscopy “just to rule out the serious stuff.” That decision ultimately saved Bec’s life.

Waking from her colonoscopy, her gastroenterologist said he hadn’t been able to complete the full colonoscopy, as there was almost a full blockage due to a tumour, and while he couldn’t confirm without pathology, it was likely to be cancerous.

She went into surgery the following morning, followed by 2 days in ICU and a week recovering. During surgery, they removed a 15cm tumour and surrounding lymph nodes. Bec recovered for a few weeks, before having 12 rounds of mop-up chemo.

Bec is a passionate advocate for bowel cancer awareness. She’s even been part of our ‘View Your Poo!’ campaign, helping to encourage people to check for blood in their poo when they go to the toilet – a red flag that something might not be right.

Bec treks to help raise awareness for early-onset bowel cancer and also in memory of those lost – especially her dear friend Sarah, who she met during chemo.

We love seeing Bec cross the finish line with a beaming smile and her colourful gaiters – a vibrant reflection of the warmth, strength and spirit she brings to everything she does.

Bec, we’re so grateful for your ongoing support and the way you continue to inspire others to speak up, seek answers, and take early action.

You can read Bec’s full story here.