A Shocking Discovery at Just 36

Mathew Duggan, a vibrant 36-year-old from Tasmania, thought his persistent stomach troubles were just food poisoning. Little did he know, the reality was far more grim—a four-inch cancerous tumor lurking in his bowel.

Duggan's ordeal began in February 2024 when he noticed changes in his bowel habits. Initially brushing it off as a minor issue, he was taken aback when diarrhea lasted for weeks, accompanied by increasing pain and eventually blood in his stool. That’s when he took the crucial step to consult a doctor.

Misdiagnosed and Misunderstood

At first, however, his doctor downplayed the symptoms due to Duggan's young age, suggesting hemorrhoids or polyps. 'Cancer wasn't even on the radar,' he recounted. But after undergoing a colonoscopy, Duggan received news that would change his life forever: a large tumor had been detected.

Fighting Back with Unyielding Spirit

Following the shocking diagnosis, Duggan underwent surgery in May 2024, followed by a grueling six-month chemotherapy regimen. The neuropathy from the treatment was excruciating. 'The pain was unbearable,' he remembered. 'There were days when walking from the bed to the fridge felt impossible.'

Protecting His Family from the Grim Reality

In a bid to shield his three-year-old daughter from the harsh truth of his illness, Duggan and his wife made the decision to keep her in the dark. 'We didn't want to expose her to it,' he explained, focusing instead on portraying an atmosphere of positivity through community fundraising efforts.

Raising Awareness and Sharing His Journey

Now in recovery, Duggan has transformed his pain into purpose. "Listen to your body; don’t dismiss the signs just because of your age," he passionately urged. In May, he undertook a monumental challenge, running over 300 miles in 12 days to raise funds for bowel cancer awareness.

His fundraising campaign aims to highlight the alarming rise of colorectal cancer among younger adults. According to the Cancer Research Institute, the incidence is increasing, with one in five new cases diagnosed in people under 55, attributed in part to lifestyle changes.

A Message of Hope and Urgency

Duggan's story is a vital reminder of the importance of vigilance regarding health, regardless of age. His rallying call to young people is clear: be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention early. 'If I had ignored my symptoms any longer, it could have been too late,' he warns.