Healthy, Active Mom Shares the Subtle Warning Signs She Ignored Before Her Bowel Cancer Diagnosis

She listed several symptoms that, in hindsight, were early signs of bowel cancer:

• Persistent abdominal pain and cramping
• Unexplained fatigue, which she attributed to being a “busy mom”
• Irregular bowel movements that she thought were due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Night sweats, which she blamed on the warm Australian weather
• Occasional bloating and discomfort after meals

None of these felt like a medical emergency at the time. But together, they painted a dangerous picture.

As Krystal later shared, “Never in a million years did I think that I would have something this cruel in my body. Cancer hurts — literally.”

A Mother’s Final Message

In her final months, Krystal used her remaining strength to speak openly about her experience. She wanted others to know how quickly things can change — and how vital early detection is.

She set up a GoFundMe page to help support her young son, Maison, and to raise awareness about the disease that took her life far too soon.

“I ignored the pain because I thought I was too young and too healthy,” she said. “Please, don’t do the same. Listen to your body. Don’t wait.”

Bowel Cancer: What to Watch For

While bowel cancer is often associated with older adults, doctors are seeing a concerning rise in younger, health-conscious individuals being diagnosed — people who exercise, eat well, and don’t fit the “typical” risk profile.

According to the NHS, common symptoms of bowel cancer can include:

• Ongoing changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum
• A constant feeling of needing to pass stool, even after going to the toilet
• Persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping
• A noticeable lump or swelling in the abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or low energy for no clear reason

While these symptoms can sometimes have less serious causes, health experts stress the importance of getting them checked early. Delaying medical attention can make all the difference in treatment outcomes.

Why Early Detection Matters

Bowel cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when caught in its early stages. However, once it spreads beyond the bowel, treatment becomes much more difficult.

Doctors urge people — regardless of age — not to dismiss ongoing discomfort or changes in their health as “nothing serious.” Whether it’s fatigue, unusual pain, or subtle digestive changes, it’s always better to get tested and have peace of mind.

Krystal’s story serves as a heartbreaking but powerful reminder that good health on the outside doesn’t always mean good health within.

A Legacy of Awareness

Before her passing earlier this year, Krystal’s mission was clear: to help others avoid the same fate. She encouraged everyone to advocate for their own health, even when it feels uncomfortable to push for answers.

Her honesty continues to inspire families and individuals around the world to take symptoms seriously — to book that appointment, to ask that extra question, to trust that inner voice saying something isn’t right.

Her story is not one of defeat, but of courage — a reminder that awareness and vigilance can save lives.

If you or someone you love is experiencing ongoing symptoms such as unexplained abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or fatigue, don’t wait. See a doctor. Get screened. Trust your instincts.

Because sometimes, listening to your body is the most powerful thing you can do.