Key Takeaways:
- Sam Kenny, a 44-year-old father, died on January 3 after a six-year battle with stage 4 bowel cancer
- He was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 38, despite having no symptoms, after a routine colonoscopy
- Bowel cancer is the second-highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand, with over 1200 people dying from it each year
- The National Bowel Screening Programme is offered every two years to people aged 60-74, but Kenny’s wife Stacey believes the starting age should be lowered to protect people like her husband
- Early screening and awareness are crucial in detecting bowel cancer, and people should push for a colonoscopy if they are concerned
Introduction to Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer is a devastating disease that affects thousands of people every year. Recently, a young Auckland father, Sam Kenny, lost his battle with the disease at the age of 44. His wife, Stacey Kenny, has spoken out about the importance of early screening and awareness, in the hope of preventing others from going through the same ordeal. Sam was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer six years ago, at the age of 38, after a routine colonoscopy. Despite having no symptoms, the cancer had already spread, and he underwent numerous surgeries, chemotherapy sessions, and doctor’s appointments.
The Importance of Early Screening
Stacey Kenny emphasized the importance of early screening, stating that if the cancer had been detected earlier, it may have been more treatable. She believes that the New Zealand Government should consider lowering the starting age for the National Bowel Screening Programme, which is currently offered every two years to people aged 60-74. By lowering the starting age, more people like Sam and his cousin, who were both diagnosed in their 30s, may be able to detect the disease early and receive treatment. Stacey also stressed the importance of people being aware of their family history and pushing for a colonoscopy if they are concerned.
Living with Cancer
Sam Kenny’s diagnosis turned his life upside down, but he refused to let it define him. He continued to run his own interior fit-out business, be a husband and father, and even play golf. Stacey described her husband as "incredible" and said that he "maximised every moment of his existence." Despite the challenges he faced, Sam remained positive and courageous, and his family was grateful for the time they had with him. Stacey advised families going through similar experiences to reach out to charities such as Bowel Cancer New Zealand and the Cancer Society for support.
Raising Awareness
Bowel cancer is the second-highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand, with over 1200 people dying from it each year. The incidence of bowel cancer in New Zealand is one of the highest in the world, making it essential to raise awareness about the disease. Stacey Kenny hopes that by sharing her husband’s story, she can encourage people to take action and get screened. She also believes that there needs to be improved access to drugs and investment in research to help combat the disease.
Family Support and Cancer
Stacey Kenny credited her husband’s strong support system, including family and friends, for helping him through his battle with cancer. She also praised the medical team that cared for Sam, including Dr. Benjamin Lawrence, Associate Professor Adam Bartlett, and Dr. Anthony Falcov. The family received support from charities such as Bowel Cancer New Zealand and the Cancer Society, which Stacey recommends to families going through similar experiences. Sam’s friend, Dai Henwood, who was also diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, was a source of support and comfort for the family.
Conclusion
Sam Kenny’s story is a tragic reminder of the importance of early screening and awareness when it comes to bowel cancer. His wife, Stacey, hopes that by sharing his story, she can encourage people to take action and get screened. By raising awareness and improving access to screening and treatment, we can work towards reducing the number of people affected by this devastating disease. As Stacey said, "if you catch it early, it’s more treatable and it’s less costly to the Government overall." It is essential that we take heed of her words and take action to prevent more families from going through the same ordeal.