Kellie Finlayson shares update on heart-wrenching cancer battle

Kellie Finlayson, the wife of an AFL star, has shared an update in her cancer battle, with her doctor describing the development as “crazy”.

Kellie Finlayson, the wife of Port Adelaide AFL star Jeremy Finlayson, has shared an incredible update about her health.

Diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer at 25 years old, she was told she may not survive to see her daughter’s first day of school.

But in news she didn’t think possible three months ago, the mother and advocate has learnt that she may live for that day – and beyond.

Last month, Kellie had a restaging scan which showed extremely positive signs that her chemotherapy treatment was working “unbelievably well”.

While her diagnosis remains terminal, Kellie will be rescanned again in another three months – which will give her a better idea of her long-term prognosis.

Kellie expressed her surprise and gratitude, as she and her medical team did not expect this outcome. Her oncologist was also shocked and described the situation as “crazy”.

Kellie Finlayson with husband Jeremy Finlayson and their daughter Sophia. Picture: @kelliefinlayson_ on Instagram

Speaking on The Project on Monday, Kellie said she was more afraid for her family throughout the ordeal.

“I’m most scared for Jeremy. No one wants to die, but I’m not scared of dying. I’m scared for Jeremy trying to be a mum and a dad,” she said.

“I don’t know how he goes to work the way he does every single day and put on a performance, I guess, each weekend the way he does so well with everything that he’s going through.”

Throughout her journey, Kellie has maintained a positive outlook and does not feel burdened by the presence of cancer. She said she is now focused on living in the moment and enjoying every day with her young family.

“I’m one of the lucky unlucky ones. My chemotherapy is working so well that my last scan was actually clear,” she continued.

Throughout her journey, Kellie has maintained a positive outlook and does not feel burdened by the presence of cancer. She said she is now focused on living in the moment and enjoying every day with her young family.

“So if it means that I’m here to see my daughter go to school for the first day or my daughter’s 21st, that’s something I didn’t think I would have three months ago.

“Until they tell me that you‘ve got three weeks, three months or whatever, make the most of it, I’m going to believe that I’m going to be here for years. I live for every day and try and make the most of every moment I have with my daughter and husband.”

Kellie’s doctors now believe that her cancer may be small enough for chemotherapy to eliminate.

Kellie‘s doctors now believe that her cancer may be small enough for chemotherapy to eliminate. She still has a few more rounds of chemotherapy left and will also undergo radiation for a lesion that appeared on her lung.

With these treatments, there is a possibility that Kellie could be cancer-free again in three months’ time.

Kellie has been honoured for her bravery in publicly sharing her cancer story.

Days after her wedding, she was recognised with the Inspiration Award at the Adelaide Advertiser Woman of the Year awards.

Originally published as Kellie Finlayson shares update on heart-wrenching cancer battle