What she discovered during that visit would change her life forever.
Moments later, the doctor delivered the devastating news: a tumor had been located.
Further imaging, including a CT scan and MRI, revealed the full extent of her condition.
The cancer had metastasized, spreading from the rectum to her uterus, pelvic lymph nodes, and right lung. The diagnosis was stage 4 bowel cancer, meaning it was incurable.
Facing Stage 4 Bowel Cancer
Receiving a stage 4 cancer diagnosis is a life-altering experience, and Susan approached it with a combination of realism, courage, and determination.
“The diagnosis is incurable,” she told the Daily Mail. “The goal now is to stay well for as long as I can. I’ll probably resume chemotherapy after my next overseas trip.”
Chemotherapy, while often grueling and physically demanding, is one of the primary treatments used to slow cancer progression, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life for patients with advanced-stage disease.
For Susan, the focus has shifted from curing the disease to managing it, maintaining her health, and spending meaningful time with her family.
Raising Awareness About a Taboo Topic
One of Susan’s primary missions since her diagnosis has been to raise awareness about bowel health—a topic often shrouded in embarrassment and silence.
“I want people to know the signs,” Susan emphasized.
“Even if your blood work is normal, even if doctors say it’s stress, diet, or hormones, listen to your instincts. Early detection can save lives.”
Her openness about her experience is helping to break the stigma around discussing bowel issues, encouraging individuals to seek medical attention without fear or shame.
Launching The Floozie Foundation
Beyond raising awareness, Susan has taken tangible steps to support others facing cancer.
She founded The Floozie Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families in adult cancer wards across Australia.
Through the foundation, Susan provides practical support, resources, and advocacy for patients navigating treatment, hospital stays, and the emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis.
Her goal is to ensure that others facing similar challenges have access to the assistance and encouragement that can make a meaningful difference during one of life’s most difficult periods.
Life as a Mother and Cancer Patient
Balancing chemotherapy, medical appointments, and daily responsibilities is no easy feat, yet Susan continues to prioritize her children’s well-being and stability.
Her resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to many, highlighting how cancer patients can continue to live purposeful lives while undergoing treatment.
Susan’s story underscores the importance of family support, self-advocacy, and mental resilience in managing chronic illness.
A Message to Others
Through her public discussions and media appearances, Susan has consistently emphasized the importance of vigilance when it comes to health.
Early warning signs of bowel cancer—fatigue, constipation, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits—should not be ignored.
“Push for answers if something feels off,” she advised. “Even if your blood work is normal, even if they say it’s stress or hormones, listen to your body. Advocate for yourself.”
Her message is particularly crucial given that bowel cancer often develops silently and can be fatal if detected too late.
By sharing her story, Susan hopes to prevent others from experiencing the delays and uncertainty she faced before receiving her diagnosis.
Continuing the Fight
Despite her advanced-stage diagnosis, Susan remains actively engaged in her fight against cancer.
She continues to undergo chemotherapy treatments, maintain her professional and personal responsibilities, and manage her foundation’s initiatives.
Susan has also used social media platforms like Instagram to provide updates on her health journey, connect with supporters, and raise awareness about bowel cancer.
Through these updates, she has built a community of individuals who share experiences, provide encouragement, and amplify her advocacy efforts.
Lessons from Susan’s Experience
Susan Schmidt’s story offers several critical lessons for the public:
Listen to Your Body: Persistent or unusual symptoms should never be dismissed. Early detection of bowel cancer significantly increases treatment options and survival rates.
Break the Silence: Talking openly about bowel health can save lives. Society’s discomfort with discussing such issues should not prevent individuals from seeking medical attention.
Advocate for Yourself: If something feels wrong, insist on further testing and consultation. Even normal test results can mask serious conditions.
Support Matters: Family, friends, and community play a vital role in supporting cancer patients, helping them navigate treatments, hospital stays, and the emotional toll of a diagnosis.
Purpose Beyond Diagnosis: Susan demonstrates that even in the face of incurable illness, it is possible to create meaningful impact, whether through family, professional contributions, or charitable initiatives.
A Community Inspired
Susan’s advocacy has resonated with countless individuals across Australia and beyond. By sharing her journey, she has inspired others to pay attention to their health, ask questions, and seek early medical intervention.
Her foundation continues to make a tangible difference, supporting adult cancer patients and their families in hospitals and community settings.
Her openness about living with stage 4 bowel cancer has also highlighted the importance of compassion and understanding for patients facing serious illnesses.
By putting a human face to the disease, Susan challenges stereotypes and encourages empathy and action from the broader public.
