In a heartbreaking turn of events, Melissa Dunmore, a young mother-of-two from Melbourne, was delivered devastating news just a week before her 33rd birthday – she had been diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer. The diagnosis came after surgeons discovered a massive 20cm tumor in her colon, along with 11 small pre-cancerous polyps.

Melissa had been working and studying but was forced to put her plans on hold after receiving the life-changing diagnosis. Her symptoms initially included slightly low iron and a small amount of blood in her stools, but she attributed it to the birth of her second child, assuming it was related to hemorrhoids.

However, in November 2023, Melissa woke up feeling ill and endured intense stomach pain accompanied by rectal bleeding. She visited the emergency room and ultimately collapsed. Unfortunately, doctors were unable to perform a timely colonoscopy due to an administrative mishap, causing Melissa to wait three months for the procedure.

After numerous medical appointments and tests, Melissa finally underwent the life-altering colonoscopy. In the recovery room, she was met with a grim prognosis from the surgeon. Overwhelmed with emotions, Melissa and her husband, Jak, went home holding each other, unsure of the severity or spread of the cancer.

Breaking the devastating news to her young children was another challenging hurdle for Melissa. Sitting them down, she explained the situation in simple terms. Although their understanding was limited, Melissa emphasized the family's openness and encouraged conversation about their feelings.

Melissa's treatment journey began in April 2023, with chemotherapy sessions scheduled to conclude at the end of September. Initially, the dosage was intense, resulting in neuropathy and throat constriction. The dosage was subsequently adjusted, but Melissa experienced common side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, hot flushes, and the absence of her menstrual cycle.

With Melissa regularly attending treatment, her husband has taken on the role of a stay-at-home dad, managing school drop-offs and grocery shopping. The couple has been relying on their savings while temporarily staying with Jak's parents, grateful for the nearby support in caring for their children.

Throughout treatment, Melissa has faced physical changes, losing 15kg, experiencing muscle loss, and going through the difficult process of hair loss. Though she had anticipated some of these effects, she admits she was not fully prepared for the magnitude of changes her life would undergo.

Melissa's courageous battle against bowel cancer serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by young families in the face of unexpected health crises. Her determination, resilience, and the unwavering support from loved ones will undoubtedly aid her in overcoming this difficult journey.