Kellie Finlayson

Born in Australia in 1996, Kellie Finlayson grew up with a strong sense of community and a passion for helping others. Her early years were marked by a love for storytelling and a desire to make a positive impact on the world around her. This foundation would later fuel her advocacy work and her commitment to raising awareness about health issues.

Kellie's personal life took a significant turn when she met Jeremy Finlayson, a professional Australian Football League (AFL) player. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage and the birth of their daughter, Sophia. The couple's journey together has been characterized by mutual support and resilience, especially in the face of Kellie's health challenges.

In 2021, at the age of 25, Kellie was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer, a life-altering event that occurred just three months after the birth of her daughter. This diagnosis propelled her into the role of a health advocate, as she sought to raise awareness about bowel cancer, particularly among young adults. Recognizing that bowel cancer is Australia's second-highest cancer killer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among individuals aged 25 to 49, Kellie became determined to change these statistics.

She took on the role of ambassador for the Jodi Lee Foundation, becoming the face of their 'Trust Your Gut' campaign. Through this platform, Kellie encourages individuals to listen to their bodies and seek medical advice when something doesn't feel right. Her advocacy emphasizes the importance of early detection and proactive health management.

Kellie's journey with cancer and her desire to share her experiences led her to write her memoir, 'There Must Be More'. Published on April 29, 2025, the book offers a searingly honest and vulnerable account of her life with a terminal diagnosis. In the memoir, Kellie describes herself not as a cancer survivor, but as a 'cancer thriver', confronting her illness with defiance and purpose.

The book has resonated deeply with readers across Australia, quickly climbing bestseller lists and cementing Kellie's voice as one that truly matters. 'There Must Be More' serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating adversity, offering insights into resilience, hope, and the human spirit's capacity to find meaning in the face of unimaginable challenges.

Beyond her writing, Kellie co-hosts the 'Sh!t Talkers' podcast with Sophie Edwards, who was diagnosed with rectal cancer in 2022. The podcast provides a platform for candid conversations about health, resilience, and finding purpose amidst adversity. Through this medium, Kellie continues to share her story, offering support and inspiration to listeners facing similar challenges.

In addition to podcasting, Kellie engages in public speaking events, sharing her journey and advocating for health awareness. Her appearances at events such as the Jodi Lee Foundation's campaigns and book tours have further amplified her message, encouraging individuals to take charge of their health and seek early detection for better outcomes.

Kellie's personal life is deeply intertwined with her advocacy work. Her husband, Jeremy Finlayson, has been a steadfast supporter throughout her journey, balancing his professional AFL career with his role as a caregiver and partner. Their daughter, Sophia, has been a source of joy and motivation for Kellie, inspiring her to continue her fight and advocacy efforts.

Despite the challenges posed by her diagnosis, Kellie remains committed to creating lasting memories with her family. Her resilience and determination to live life fully, despite the uncertainties, serve as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. Through her story, Kellie continues to inspire others to find purpose and hope, even in the face of adversity.

https://www.instagram.com/kelliefinlayson_

https://www.jodileefoundation.org.au/kellie-finlayson-memoir-there-must-be-more/