Introduction
by Steve Holmes

Lynette Williams cholangiocarcinoma journey began in late 2020 with a diagnosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. What followed was not passive following of treatment, but a response under pressure that recognised the need for a new structure.

Under pressure, it’s our cognition that determines trajectory and outcomes.

When diagnosed with this type of cancer, the margins of effective response narrow quickly. Information fragments fueling confusion. Decision pressure accelerates, and recurrence risk looms real.

What differentiates outcomes is not optimism. It is how a patient thinks and acts under this new pressure.

Lynette’s actions showed me that she understood that.

When circumstances changed, she adapted.
When recurrence appeared, she escalated.
When margins narrowed further, she restructured her approach.

That is not dramatic or reactive; it was now structured, calm, and deliberate.

Lynette did not wait for clarity to arrive.
She built it.

She did not assume the phases would connect themselves.
She connected them.

That is what I see in her story.

Below is how it unfolded.

When Lynette Williams received her diagnosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in late 2020, her life was forever changed. Like many who hear the words “bile duct cancer” for the first time, she was confronted with a rare and aggressive disease that few people, even in the medical community, knew much about. But Lynette’s story is not one of despair, it is one of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of exceptional care and knowledge.

Early Diagnosis and a Defining Moment

Lynette’s journey began with what she thought was mild indigestion. Thankfully, her diligent GP ordered an ultrasound that revealed a tumour. This proactive step led to an early diagnosis, which Lynette credits as a defining moment in her survival. She underwent her first liver resection at Coffs Harbour Base Hospital, a groundbreaking surgery performed by a skilled Upper GI specialist.

Facing Recurrence and the Path to Hope

Despite completing six months of chemotherapy, Lynette faced a recurrence of her cancer in the final week of treatment. Determined to keep fighting, she sought further care and found herself under the expertise of Dr. Charbel Sandroussi in Sydney. Dr. Sandroussi performed a second liver resection, and Lynette underwent additional chemotherapy. “Dr. Sandroussi isn’t just an incredibly skilled surgeon; he truly cares about his patients,” Lynette reflects. “His passion for treating cholangiocarcinoma and his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes is extraordinary.”

Under his care, Lynette gained renewed hope. “Dr. Sandroussi takes the time to truly understand each patient’s situation,” she shares. “He’s not just treating a disease, he’s caring for people.”

The Role of Knowledge and Advocacy

Lynette attributes her success to more than medical intervention; knowledge and advocacy were just as vital. “I owe so much to Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Australia and Steve Holmes,” she says. “The information and support I received were life-changing. When I experienced a recurrence, I knew exactly what steps to take because of the tools and knowledge Steve provided.”

Armed with the Patient Navigator Journal, Lynette became her own best advocate. “This journal is a godsend, exceptionally well-written, easy to follow, and it fills a critical gap for ICC patients. It even impressed my oncologist, who spent a long time reviewing it,” she notes. This knowledge empowered Lynette to act quickly, seek second opinions, and secure timely intervention, which she believed was critical to her survival.

Celebrating Milestones

On 18 August 2025, Lynette marked the fourth anniversary of her second liver resection, a significant milestone in her journey. “Every milestone is a victory with this disease,” she says. Today, Lynette is celebrating over 51 months cancer-free, a testament to her resilience, the care of Dr. Sandroussi, and the resources provided by Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Australia.

A Message of Hope

Lynette’s story is a beacon of hope for those facing a cholangiocarcinoma diagnosis. Her message is simple: “With the right combination of skilled medical care, knowledge, and proactive advocacy, it’s possible to beat this disease.” She encourages others to support initiatives like the Patient Navigator Journal, which she describes as essential for survival. “Please support Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Australia’s patient initiatives, I certainly do!”

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