FAQs
How did you come up with this idea?
After the devastating passing of Rob, we wanted to create a legacy for him and the many taken too young from bowel cancer. As we planned to raise funds and awareness for the deserving organisation Bowel Cancer Australia, our passion grew and we committed to growing our initiatives and develop Time is Precious. We were inspired by many other young locals and their efforts to fight for change, and we knew that the Bowel Cancer community was in need of our help.
What are some early symptom signs I should look out for?
Common symptoms of bowel cancer include: A recent, persistent change in bowel habit, a change in shape or appearance of blood in your stool, frequent gas pain, cramps, unexplained anaemia, pain or lump in the anus and/or abdominal pain or swelling. Should you experience any of these symptoms, see a health care professional as soon as possible. When diagnosed early, almost 99% of cases can be successfully treated.
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding should never been ignored.
Without attending the charity ball, how can I get involved?
We understand everyones busy schedules and the challenging times during COVID-19. As of yet we haven’t set a date for the next charity ball, however, rest assured we have plans for other campaigns through out the year. Make sure you follow our Facebook and/or Instagram to keep up with what we are currently doing!
Individuals and businesses are also invited and encouraged to contact us at any time should you have any additional ideas or wish to collaborate.
What are your plans for the future of Time is Precious?
We have many goals and aspirations for Time is Precious and we are working towards achieving these every day. We would love to increase the community around our organisation to maximise the awareness and exposure our initiatives have. We aim to provide assistance, reminders and strategies to as many as possible to make the greatest difference. Both Time is Precious and Bowel Cancer Australia are 100% community funded programs that rely on the support of you and your peers to mitigate fatality and assist with early detection and research. At the moment we are focusing on promoting bowel cancer awareness month (June), smaller incentives including fun runs or challenges and the development of our annual charity ball.
How do you promote your early intervention strategies and other awareness resources?
We have a direct link to the Bowel Cancer Australia website which provides detailed information on all aspects. You can also find additional information and strategies on our Facebook page and Instagram. We provide year round reminders, updates and information on bowel cancer. With social media being a prominent part of daily life, our intention is for page to provide reminders and support built into your regular social media usage.
What research is currently being done?
Bowel cancer is Australia's second deadliest cancer and has the second highest disease burden of any cancer in Australia. Unfortunately bowel cancer received around 46% less research funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council compared to breast cancer; and receives no government funding to support bowel cancer nurse specialists, compared to $80 million for breast cancer and $30 million for prostate cancer.
Bowel Cancer Australia established the Bowel Cancer Research Foundation to support and sustain research into causes, prevention and treatment of bowel cancer. They are significantly invested in the Lawrence Penn Chair of Bowel Cancer Research in collaboration with the University of Sydney to strengthen collective pursuits of a cure. To date, Bowel Cancer Australia have funded $11.6 million in bowel cancer research projects and are dedicated to bettering the future of bowel cancer medicine.