From Cancer Diagnosis to a 550km Marathon: Matt Duggan Raises Awareness for Bowel Cancer

June marks Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of early detection and support for those affected by one of Australia’s most common cancers. As part of Bowel Cancer Australia’s signature awareness and fundraising event, Icon Cancer Centre in partnership with Bowel Cancer Australia is proud to share the powerful stories of patients like Matt Duggan, whose courage and determination are helping to change perceptions and save lives.

Tasmanian local and Icon Cancer Centre patient Matt Duggan has achieved an extraordinary personal milestone, completing a grueling 550km solo run from Cockle Creek to Stanley, finishing on Wednesday 14 May, raising awareness for bowel cancer and to shine a light on the reality of the disease.  

In April 2024, Matt’s world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with Stage 3 bowel cancer at just 36 years old.

“I had a few symptoms for about a month and decided to get checked. I’m really lucky I listened to my body and my mum, and acted when I did,” Matt shared.

Following surgery to remove a 10cm tumour and affected lymph nodes, Matt began six months of intensive chemotherapy at Icon Cancer Centre Hobart. Now in the surveillance stage of his recovery, he says one of the most critical sources of support during treatment came from his specialist Bowel Care Nurse, Paula Chen.

Photo caption: Icon Cancer Centre Hobart site manager Matthew Rundle with Icon Cancer Centre patient Matt Duggan who has just completed a 550km marathon.  

“He’s brought attention to the fact that bowel cancer can affect young people too, and his advocacy is helping to break down stigma and raise awareness around early detection.”

Matt’s 550km run across Tasmania served not only as a personal challenge but as a platform to highlight the need for greater awareness and earlier screening for bowel cancer, especially in younger Australians.

“Bowel cancer isn’t just an old person’s disease. I was 36. If this journey helps even one person recognize the symptoms and get checked early, then it’s all been worth it,” he said.

“I believe everyone 18 and older should have access to bowel screening.”

Icon Cancer Centre Hobart site manager Matthew Rundle congratulated Matt on completing the grueling marathon and for raising awareness around bowel cancer.

“Matt’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From the moment he began treatment, it was clear he was determined not to let cancer define him. To see that he completed a 550km marathon to raise awareness is truly inspiring for our whole team,” he said.

“At Icon Cancer Centre Hobart, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized care, and Matt’s story is a testament to the power of that support combined with incredible personal resilience. His strength, his advocacy, and his openness in sharing his story will help countless others.

“Matt approached his treatment with positivity and focus, even during the toughest days. Our staff, including his care team and especially Paula, were privileged to walk alongside him on this journey. We couldn’t be prouder of what he’s achieved.”

Matt credits his wife Kelly and daughter Halle as his biggest motivation.

“It’s been a tough road, but I’ve come out of it with more gratitude, more perspective and hopefully, with a message that helps others,” he said.

If you would like to find out more on how you can become a patient at Icon Cancer Centre Hobart, please visit https://iconcancercentre.com.au/centre/hobart/