Sarah with her team on a trip to Boyne Smelter.

Graphic: Sarah with her team on a trip to Boyne Smelter.

Flying Doctor Podcast #70 How Sarah's stomach ache almost took her life.

Date published

05 May 2023
Sarah Ward with her family

Flying Doctor Podcast #70

In this latest episode of the Flying Doctor Podcast An Australian outback mother has shared her harrowing experience of ignoring severe pain for two weeks before being diagnosed with a life-threatening condition. 

Sarah, who lives in Weeper, Queensland, shared her story on The Flying Doctor podcast, detailing how she had been feeling unwell and experiencing abdominal pain for some time before seeking medical attention. 

Despite feeling increasingly uncomfortable and needing regular pain relief, Sarah continued to soldier on, attributing her symptoms to overindulging or lack of exercise.

Sarah's team at work

It wasn't until Sarah's pain became unbearable that she sought medical attention, and by that point, she had already been suffering for two weeks. 

After returning to work and struggling through another week, Sarah experienced rebound pain, a clear indicator of a burst appendix. 

She finally sought medical attention and was diagnosed with a severe case of peritonitis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Sarah with a colleague

Speaking on The Flying Doctor podcast, Sarah admitted that she had ignored the signs that something was wrong, putting her busy life and family responsibilities first. 

She urged other women not to neglect their health and to seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms. 

Sarah's story is a stark reminder of the importance of taking care of our health, particularly for those living in remote areas where medical attention may not be as accessible. 

The Flying Doctor podcast aims to raise awareness of health issues affecting rural and remote communities, and Sarah's experience highlights the need for greater education and awareness around the importance of seeking medical attention.

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