WHAT WE DO
Community wellness talks to help beat bowel cancer
The more New Zealanders we can reach with bowel cancer education, the better the chances of detecting it earlier – and saving lives. That’s why we provide community wellness talks about the risks and symptoms of bowel cancer at your venue or online.
Bowel cancer kills too many New Zealanders
Bowel cancer is the second highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand. It kills over 1,200 Kiwis a year (as many as breast and prostate cancer combined), and it can affect anyone at any age.
Early detection is critical, which is why we offer bowel cancer awareness talks to community organisations and clubs all around New Zealand. The more people who know the early signs and symptoms, the more we can reduce these horrific statistics.
Sue Soper, Community Ambassador presenting a community wellness talk
Raise awareness of bowel cancer in your community with our wellness talks
Bowel cancer affects New Zealanders of all ages, genders and ethnicities. On average, 8 Kiwis are diagnosed with bowel cancer, and 3 of us die of it every single day.
As a nationwide, patient-focused charity, Bowel Cancer NZ is committed to reducing the impact of bowel cancer in New Zealand. We do this by educating communities, raising awareness, supporting those living with bowel cancer and their whānau, and through advocacy and research.
We can tailor our education programme to suit your club or community group – just let us know what you need!
Cost
Free but koha/donations are welcome.
Duration
30 to 60 minutes including questions
Venue
Location of your choice or online via Zoom
Resources
Presentation folder includes a set of Bowel Cancer NZ education resources. We can also bring ‘Colin’ (our giant inflatable colon) on request.
Our amazing presenters
Our presenters will give an informative, interactive talk about bowel cancer facts, statistics, symptoms and treatments. Plus, attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions! Our knowledgeable presenters include:
Sue Soper – Community Ambassador
Sue’s son Matthew was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer at age 39, and sadly, passed away 18 months later. Sue believes that early diagnosis and national screening, along with timely intervention, is the best defence we can have against this deadly disease. Her aim is that every New Zealander have a higher awareness of the symptoms and greater access to our screening programme.
Wayne Fa’asega – Community Ambassador
A family man with three sons, Wayne was diagnosed with bowel cancer at just 43 years old. He made contact with Bowel Cancer New Zealand and was encouraged to join their online support group, which he found really beneficial during his cancer journey. Wayne was very keen to give back and help others, so he became one of our community ambassadors.
“Sue’s presentation really hit the mark. Her personal story and informative insights combined beautifully to give an authentic, clear message about symptoms, screening and looking out for each other. Some staff members talked to me afterwards to share their personal and family stories with bowel cancer and to share their appreciation for raising awareness.”
Jon Rix
Tonkin + Taylor
Protect the people in your community
Book a wellness talk today.