My name is Renee Gosney, and I was diagnosed with Stage 3 bowel cancer in April 2019 at the age of 25—completely out of the blue. I underwent major surgery, 4x cycles of chemotherapy over 3 months, and about six months after completing treatment, I was told my cancer was undetectable.

During my treatment, I found it difficult to connect with other young patients facing similar experiences. That led me to seek out organisations that could provide support, which is how I discovered the Queensland Youth Cancer Services Youth Advisory Group (QYCS). I first joined as a member and not long after became co-chair, a role I held for four years until finishing at the end of last year. Through this role, I was actively involved in patient advocacy, helping to create better support networks for young people navigating cancer treatment and survivorship.

As part of my journey, I also underwent genetic testing, which deepened my interest in genomics and its role in cancer treatment and awareness. My involvement allowed me to advocate for greater awareness and accessibility to genetic testing, particularly for young patients facing similar diagnoses. I am passionate about ensuring that others have access to the same resources and information that helped me through my own experience.

Today, I am still cancer-free and undergoing regular surveillance. Outside of personal advocacy, I now run my own business—a reflection of my lifelong love for pets. As they have been my rock throughout my entire journey, providing comfort and companionship from the very beginning.

Renee Gosney https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-gosney/
WoohooPets https://woohoopets.com/

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