Woman, 47, diagnosed with stage 4 cancer issues urgent warning about subtle symptom she dismissed
ArchiveFirst published June 21, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
Susan Schmidt, a 47-year-old mom from Australia, wants everyone to know how easily bowel cancer signs can be overlooked. She dismissed her early symptoms — fatigue and constipation — thinking they were due to menopause and rich vacation food.
“I had health literacy. I was a physiotherapist. But it never occurred to me to consider bowel cancer,” Susan shared. By the time she saw a doctor, she was in “absolute agony,” but no one suspected cancer until four months later.
Now diagnosed with incurable stage four bowel cancer, Susan is determined to break the silence. “I want people to know the signs. Even if you’re told it’s stress or menopause — push for answers,” she urged.
Susan has founded The Floozie Foundation to raise awareness and support bowel cancer patients and nurses. She hopes her story will encourage people to speak openly about bowel habits and never ignore unusual changes.
Her message is simple: listen to your body, trust your instincts, and never be afraid to seek help.
