She was fit, healthy and had just turned 40 so when Deb Weeks was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2013, it came as a shock.
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While the Jervis Bay local is now in remission from Stage 3 bowel cancer, she’s made it her mission to raise awareness of the disease.
“My diagnosis has continued to turn our lives upside down and it is an experience that changes a life forever, never to be the same,” she said.
“Did you know bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer next to lung cancer?
“There are very little, if any signs that you have bowel cancer and 90 per cent of cases can be cured if caught early enough.”
Ms Weeks is now gearing up to host the third Bowel Cancer Trivia Night on Saturday, June 4 at the St George's Basins Country Club.
”Since my diagnosis in April 2013 we have raised over $25,000 for cancer, the majority of this being for bowel cancer,” Ms Weeks said.
“Did you know bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer next to lung cancer? There are very little, if any signs that you have bowel cancer and 90 per cent of cases can be cured if caught early enough.
- -Deb Weeks
“The community has been amazing at showing support, whether it be financially through donations, raffle ticket purchase or attending the night which has become very well known on the annual social calendar.
“The first year we had 180 people playing trivia and competing for first place raising over $5000. The second year it went to a whopping 265 people, raising $8000. This year I am expecting to hit over 300 people all vying for first place.”
Ms Weeks is hoping the night raises more than $10,000 and is encouraging businesses to make a prize donation.
“Any donation would be greatly appreciated. Whether it is goods or vouchers for raffles and prizes or cash to assist in purchasing promotional products, all donations will be put to perfect use.”
Doors open at 5.30pm and trivia will get underway at 7pm. Tickets are available at the door for $15, including a light supper and band.
Teams are welcome to enter on the night and places will be found for any individuals keen to join the fun.
Contact Deb Weeks on 0404860574 or ray-deb30@bigpond.com