Flinders graduate Kellie Finlayson, who calls herself “a cancer survivor and thriver” was the keynote speaker at ‘Trust Your Gut’, a special event in Bedford Park Campus focused on surviving and thriving after a cancer diagnosis.

Kellie, a model, social media influencer and ambassador for the Jodi Lee Bowel Cancer Foundation is on a mission to save as many people as possible after her own devastating Stage 4 bowel cancer diagnosis.

She has experienced aggressive chemotherapy, several relapses and is now undergoing active treatment after receiving a terminal diagnosis as a new mum at the age of 27 years old.

At the event, Kellie shared her lived experience and ongoing journey as a cancer survivor and highlighted the importance of early detection of cancer and staying head strong.

“My diagnosis was hard to comprehend. I was three months post-partum and my symptoms were easily disguised by having just had a baby,” says Kellie.

“Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer in 35-50 years olds – it’s not an old person’s disease. I want to use my platform to help people and I’m on a mission to save as many lives as possible.”

She credits her “strong mindset for turning a difficult situation into a powerful one…and to be a voice for those who don’t have one.”

Kellie was joined by an expert panel featuring Dr Matthew Wallen, Dr Katia Ferrar and Dr Emma Kemp for a Q&A session. It covered topics such as cancer supportive care, physical activity and exercise for wellbeing and practical advice for people living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis.

It also touched on the importance of including people with lived experience in new and ongoing research and the role that GPs play in assisting with a quick diagnosis and the continuing care of those with a cancer diagnosis.

Coordinated by Flinders University Sport and Fitness (FUSF) and MC’d by Pia Grimm , the event was a SSAF funded wellness event.

Amy Moyce from FUSF, who coordinated the event said that colorectal cancer was something very close to her heart and that she wanted to empower people to check in on themselves, their health and their friends.

You can learn more about Kellie here and on her podcast: Sh*t Talkers Pod with Kell and Soph