Tracy’s Story

“If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts – keep pushing until you get answers.”

When Auckland mum Tracy Thomson started experiencing persistent abdominal pain in her early forties, she knew something wasn’t right. Despite multiple appointments with her GP and even visits to A&E, her symptoms were repeatedly dismissed as constipation. The pain worsened, and it wasn’t until her mother took her to Middlemore Hospital that scans finally revealed the truth – a large mass was completely blocking her bowel.

Tracy required emergency surgery. Surgeons removed part of her colon along with 42 lymph nodes, and ten days later, biopsy results confirmed stage 3 bowel cancer, with the disease already spreading to her lymphatic system.

The months that followed were gruelling. Tracy underwent six months of chemotherapy while adjusting to life with a temporary stoma. Fatigue, nausea, and neuropathy became part of her everyday reality, but she leaned on humour, resilience, and the unwavering support of her husband, young son, and parents to get through the hardest days.

After her initial treatment, Tracy had a stoma reversal and was cleared of cancer. She felt a renewed sense of hope – but it wasn’t long before follow-up testing during her annual check-up revealed sessile serrated polyps, one of which had already developed into early-stage cancer. Doctors recommended removing her entire colon to prevent future disease, meaning Tracy would live with a permanent stoma. The decision was overwhelming, but she chose the option that gave her the best chance of a long, healthy life.

Today, Tracy embraces her “bag for life” with courage and confidence. She has returned to work, resumed playing social netball, and even feels comfortable wearing a bikini – something she never imagined before cancer. She focuses on family time, laughter, and creating meaningful memories, while managing the long-term effects of treatment, including ongoing neuropathy.

Tracy has also completed the 11km Auckland Harbour Bridge Traverse – a personal milestone she’s incredibly proud of. “I finished in a time of 1 hour 37 minutes, which honestly surprised me with how well I did. I managed to keep running the whole way, even on the relentless incline going up the bridge. So many things are possible when you put your mind to it. Life hasn’t stopped because of my cancer diagnosis or permanent stoma.”

Tracy shares her story to remind others that bowel cancer can happen at any age. She urges people to listen to their bodies, advocate for themselves, and never accept being dismissed. “Early detection saves lives,” she says. “If something feels off, get checked – you know your body better than anyone.”