After feeling under the weather for a while, I underwent some tests in October 2024 and was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. Being only 42 these were words I never thought I would hear. The tumour was a bit of a beast and was inoperable so I had 4 months of incredible immunotherapy which did the job and my cancer was removed (along with a fair bit of my colon) on 24th March 2025. I'm recovering well at home now and received great news this week that clear margins were achieved during surgery,

On reflection I’d had symptoms for a while but always shrugged them off as being busy, eaten something that doesn’t agree with me or had a big weekend - now I understand if I’d listened to my body and how I was feeling a bit more I may have seen a doctor earlier. I didn’t have many of the well known symptoms that would make anyone think cancer, but regular changes in my bowel habits over the years and feeling really tired I now know were my body telling me something was up. So I guess, if you feel the same, speak to your doctor and insist on getting checked - no matter your age!

I have been absolutely blessed with so much support from my amazing partner Harry, my wonderful family and awesome friends. Honestly, they have been the best as we’ve navigated tests, scans and results together. I love you all very much ❤️

I had my gallbladder removed in March 2023, following the procedure I suffered from a continuous upset stomach. I was told this was to be expected so I just got on with it for a while!

Symptoms seemed to get worse and they were accompanied by pain too. My right side felt sore and tender and I also had intermittent pain in my right shoulder! After several trips to the GP and A and E I was given numerous tests, subsequently I was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer!

January 2024 I was told I had incurable, inoperable bowel cancer with an extensive spread to my liver! I was offered 6 months of Folfirinox palliative chemotherapy!

I was only 43, a busy Mum of 2 teenage girls and finally getting more experience in Teaching and excited about my future! This wasn’t fair!!

However, I completed 12 sessions of chemo and had a fantastic response. The tumours in my liver had shrunk significantly! In December 2024 I had a Portal and Hepatic vein embolism in preparation for my liver resection in January.

I am now 10 weeks post surgery where I had 75% of my liver removed, I can’t pretend that it was easy, it was pretty awful at times! However, I feel so fortunate that I’ve got this far and will now be closely monitored!

We lost our mam to bowel cancer 20 years ago, she was 43 years old and left behind 3 children, the youngest being just 3 years old. Mam had multiple miss diagnosed causes for her pain and discomfort, the main being a very swollen tummy. I remember this really vividly as she asked me to help her pull her trousers up as she couldn’t bend down to do it herself. For a long time I was really angry that she had been told it could be something else, which to me meant she went longer before she could be possibly saved.

I miss having my mam around, especially now as a mother to 2 children. I hope that soon cancer can be a thing of the past with the support of Bowel Cancer UK and by spreading the word and awareness.

I am taking part in Active April in memory of my mam Amanda Jane Fisher, for people who have lost loved ones to bowel cancer, for those living with bowel cancer, and the survivors of bowel cancer.

We are almost 6 months into our “after”. My dad died in October 2024 after his heroic battle with bowel cancer. He was 69 years old.

It took 3 trips to the doctor and to be turned away twice from the hospital until someone finally agreed he needed a scan.
We didn’t see him for 7 hours after that scan, he was rushed through for emergency surgery and they removed a tumour the size of an apple from his bowel. We were told immediately it would be non reversible and he would live with a stoma.

To find out it had spread to his lung and liver was devastating, we told my young children, used the big words and let them ask lots of questions, but inside we were all dying too.

But he fought, every surgery and every chemo session, with utter grace and humour, thinking only of his family.
In June 2024 we were told there was nothing more that could be done, we had a year. And we all died a bit more that day too.

My little boy was turning 11 in October and my dad was struggling, we moved his bedroom downstairs and we told my children the very stark truth that we needed to treasure every moment with grandad. He faded so fast, none of us were ready, but he was.

He battled through to see my son’s birthday, we ate cake and we laughed. It was tragic but wonderful. My dad passed away 7 days later and we’ve all been in total shock since.

My dad was a wonderful man, calm and graceful, full of intellect, kindness and humour. He was the President of Employment Tribunals for England and Wales before he retired in 2020 and much of his research political debate, including the disability discrimination act. I am so proud. But also so very angry, this angel of a man, who served justice faithfully was unjustly taken too soon.

His symptons were missed, the change to bowel movement, the weight loss, the sickness. My wish, in his memory, is anyone who is worried or concerned can reach out for support and know there is no stigma in discussing poo!

I miss you terribly and I’m simply lost without you.

I was first diagnosed with bowel cancer in December 2021. I never noticed any symptoms other than persistent bloating and tiredness. I suddenly took unwell with vomiting and when got reviewed in hospital had a tumour hiding away in the corner of my bowel. 2 days later I had surgery and my cancer was removed. Luckily I had a resection and no need for a stoma. I had spread into local lymph nodes so after 4 rounds of chemo I was cancer free for 2 years.
Unfortunately at my 2 year review my cancer had returned and this time was told it was metastatic stage 4 cancer as it had spread to distant lymph nodes and both lungs. Despite there being no cure and being unable to tolerate chemo, I am living the best life I can. I have lots of plans with family and my 8 year old son keeps me fighting on. And I'm still working full time!
My advice for anyone would be act on any sign no matter how small and if like me you get the worst-case diagnosis, enjoy every minute of your life.

It’s always someone else. For nearly 55 years it was someone else. Family, friends, a friend of a friend. But never me.
My dad died of bowel cancer about 10 years ago, realisation and diagnosis was too late for him. Was it for me?
It seemed so innocuous, mild tummy pain and a little blood when going for a poo. Nothing serious, paracetamol and some cream should clear it up. It can’t be me.
In spring 2024 I started experiencing mild stomach pain, a little blood on the toilet paper, a loss of energy, and a reduced capacity to finish meals (no loss of appetite). Being a man, and perhaps of a certain age, I brushed this all off and assumed it was a stomach upset and maybe a minor case of piles. Nothing to worry about.
A nagging wife (we only got married in April 2023) eventually convinced me to (reluctantly) contact the doctors. On my first year wedding anniversary I was diagnosed with a malignant tumour (Stage 3) of the descending colon.
In June 2024 I underwent major surgery; laparoscopically assisted left hemicolectomy. The surgery completely wiped me out but fortunately I didn’t require a stoma and haven’t required radio or chemotherapy, but the recovery continues.
The lesson (especially for the men), if you have any symptoms, no matter how innocuous, insignificant, or embarrassing they may seem, go to see your doctor!
The treatment I have received has been superb, from the first visit to the doctors through surgery and beyond, I cannot fault or question. I am now a regular Cove Macmillan Support Centre (Truro) patron and share my experience and message as much as possible.

I suffered diarrhoea for a number of years and eventually decided to see my Dr. in December 2009 She referred me to the colorectal consultant who immediately ordered a scan and lo and behold I was diagnosed with bowel cancer!!! Just like that with no other sign or indication. In January 2010 I was operated on with 8 inches of my bowel being removed. I was so fortunate being found early and required no further action. However, last year, 2024, I was diagnosed with lung cancer and operated on in May. All was again successfully removed and again, no further action has been required. Unfortunately, since the operation, I have a breathing problem which is very depressing and frustrating. However, I have and still am being very well cared for by the ,medical staff of the NHS. I would mention I am 88 years old and have suggested to different people I am in contact with that I expect parties for my 100th birthday in some 11 1/2 years time!!!! Please all stay positive as negativity will never help. God bless.
Xxx🙏🙏🙏

We are proud to carry mums legacy forward—one stitch, one story, and one memory at a time. We miss you every day!

In October 2023, our beloved mum, Sue, was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer. Despite the devastating diagnosis, she faced every day with strength, grace, and unwavering determination. Sadly, she passed away in June 2024, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire us.

Sue was more than a mother—she was a devoted friend, a passionate golfer, a lover of the outdoors and travelling, and someone who cherished long countryside walks with her girls. She also had a deep love for upholstery and a remarkable eye for detail, which led to us founding in a business in her memory, and her spirit lives on in everything we do. The business is rooted the values Mum held dear: respect for craftsmanship, love for the trade, and a commitment to doing things with heart and excellence.

This month, in honour of Sue and to raise awareness, we are donating 10% of every purchase to Bowel Cancer UK.

We are proud to carry her legacy forward—one stitch, one story, and one memory at a time.

In March of last year, I received the unexpected diagnosis of colorectal cancer. At the time, I was juggling a very full life—being a wife, mother to three children, working two jobs, and navigating the complexities of our family's visa application for indefinite leave to remain. My symptoms were subtle—mostly just feeling tired and noticing a few specks of blood in my stool. Despite my husband’s repeated urging to see a doctor about the blood, I wasn’t overly concerned. I thought it was just mild constipation causing it. Eventually, I decided to visit the doctor, and after a colonoscopy, I was diagnosed immediately. A few weeks later, I underwent major surgery and faced complications, including a high-output ileostomy and an ileus, which meant a challenging three-week hospital stay.

The year 2024 turned out to be incredibly difficult. I could hardly work, and my health took a rapid downturn, with a fistula, dehydration, bladder infections, and a significant decline in my mental health. I wasn’t living a very healthy life at the time—I was a long-time smoker, ate alot of fast food and drank alcohol.

However, on December 2nd, I underwent a successful reversal surgery. Although I now experience mild LARS (low anterior resection syndrome) symptoms, I am doing so much better. I am proud to say that I have not smoked for a year and have completely transformed my lifestyle.

Throughout this journey, I learned that South Africa is in urgent need of stoma supplies, something that truly opened my eyes to the struggles faced by others. Looking back at how traumatic 2024 was for me, I cannot imagine undergoing such a major surgery and then being without the essential supplies. This realization sparked a deep desire to help. As a result, I started a charity.

Despite the challenges, my life has taken a positive turn, and I am living life to the fullest. I am beyond grateful to my surgeon, the NHS, and my family and friends who supported me every step of the way. Their love and encouragement made all the difference, and I’m now more determined than ever to make a difference for others facing similar struggles.

In July 2023, I started noticing a few unsettling signs. Nothing too alarming at first—just a nagging feeling that something wasn’t quite right. There was no major pain, no obvious issues, just a feeling that something with my health wasn’t normal. After a series of tests that came back clear, I took a FIT test—essentially, a small sample of poo (which, let’s be honest, is not easy to collect). A few days later, the results came in, and the news was nothing short of life-changing.

The words that followed will stay with me forever: “Alastair, it’s cancer. It’s aggressive, and it’s spread.”

That’s a hard thing to hear. You’d think there would be a thousand questions… but it’s a pretty numb feeling, naturally there are some key questions .. How long do I have? Can it be fixed? And most gut-wrenching of all, how do I tell my boys?

In August 2023, my cancer journey officially began. More tests, more appointments, and an incredibly supportive medical team. In September I got a full diagnosis, T4 cancer in the bowel with an attachment to my bladder, that result triggered the start of the chemotherapy. To say it was challenging would be an understatement— I missed my 50th birthday (well I was there, but I didn’t drink anything and I was home in bed by 10pm!).

Thankfully, after completing the chemo cycle, I got a break over Christmas—and even managed to squeeze in some belated Birthday drinks with some fantastic friends, aswell as a quick trip to Gambia with my parents before things really ramped up in 2024!

In February 2024, I underwent major surgery: a total colectomy (removal of my bowel) and a partial cystectomy (partial removal of my bladder). For those who’ve had a beer with me, you’ll know my bladder was never particularly generous—well, now, let’s just say my trips to the loo have become… frequent!

After a 20-day recovery in the hospital, followed by another four weeks of recuperation at home, I faced another round of chemotherapy. The second round was much tougher, leaving me with neuropathy in my feet... not great for running! After all of that, I finally finished my last chemo cycle in June last year.

Now, here I am (95% of me) —18 months after my surgery I want to pay back, ive decided to take on challenge, running a marathon for charity may seem like the “cliché” thing to do—but it’s one of the most empowering things I can think of after everything I’ve been through. I won’t lie it’s probably one of the dumbest decisions I’ve ever made, but it’s also a symbol of how far I’ve come—and a celebration of the second chance I’ve been given.

You can search my name on the 2025 TCS London Marathon Enthuse pages to find out more about my story.

More importantly... spread the news about the FIT test... any doubts... get tested!

Back in August, an incident with my 2 children (aged 2 and 3 at the time) meant they had to live with me and my retired mother. A few days later, my father then told me he found blood. After giving a sample, followed by a scan appointment and camera appointment, he was told it was Bowel Cancer. So my life changed completely in more ways than one within a few days.

I then went on Bowel Cancer Facebook page, and I had seen a video from Genevieve Edwards put up on 19th June 2024 just before last general election calling for 'National Cancer Strategy', as well as asking for better Staff & Kit shortages as well as improving the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme. That really struck me and so I contacted my local MP Noah Law (St Austell & Newquay) to press the government on exactly this. I thought it was a very long shot but to be fair, he did that on my behalf at Westminster Hall on 31st October 2024, it's there on the record. Even my MP shared it on his own Facebook page. And the government's response that day said it will bring in a National Cancer Plan in the spring. I showed the video to my father and he was very pleased it got raised.

The latest on my father is that he has had the operation and is now near the end of his chemotherapy tablets and hopes to have stoma reversal by the end of the summer. All the staff of all departments at Royal Cornwall Hospital have been amazing, as well as the aftercare. They all deserve a mention. My 2 children have missed their Grandad for a while but are very pleased to see him again.

I emailed Bowel Cancer UK regarding the 'Get On A Roll' campaign identifying loo roll companies in shop and online that should follow the example of Andrex in raising awareness on products. I did not want to stop there, so when the opportunity came up recently to be 'Bowel Cancer Awareness Champion' I had to play a part. I have already asked 3 doctor surgeries in St Austell to put up 'Know The Symptoms Of Bowel Cancer' posters and 1 of them has already done that and tagged Bowel Cancer on its Facebook page showing evidence of the poster up. I am intending to ask pharmacies to put them up as well in due course. On top of that, I have posted the 'Facts About Bowel Cancer' Leaflets through peoples letterboxes. I am a parcel courier so I can post these at a time that suits me. Already posted 30 leaflets in either houses, flats or farms, and have asked for more. Whilst fundraising is very important, raising awareness of this disease is more valuable in my opinion. My father was lucky in the sense it was caught very early.

I never thought at 38 I would receive a diagnosis of Bowel Cancer but that is exactly what happened and it only happened because I saw a post on Social Media with the symptoms to look out for. I had to go through Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy and Surgery alone as I was diagnosed during lockdown in 2020. I now have a permanent Stoma, Winnie we call her and I am currently NED. I have just over 12 months of surveillance to go. I was Stage 3b when I was diagnosed, if you have any concerns please visit your GP and advocate for yourself, Bowel Cancer is treatable if caught in time.

I was 26 when I was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer (May 2023). I had went to my GP 9 months prior to diagnosis (August 2022) with months of ongoing symptoms - change in bowel habits and pain in tummy, I was fobbed off and quite literally told “it’s probably just a nervous tummy”, I begged to have bloods taken which came back ‘borderline’ twice with no further action. The way the GP made me feel in that appointment alone put me off going back for so long, I eventually went back in March 2023 as my symptoms got severely worse, bleeding from bottom, rapid weight loss, fatigue, no appetite and constant pain. I requested a different GP who admitted I should have been referred the first time, I had bloods taken again which then came back ‘abnormal’ and a stool sample showed high calprotectin and was instantly referred for a colonoscopy which I had (May 2023) confirming a tumour blocking my bowel and diagnosed initially with colorectal cancer. I was then sent for CT and MRI scans which showed spread to lymph nodes and liver. I was told I would be put onto ‘palliative chemotherapy’ to keep me alive for as long as possible rather than to treat/cure the cancer. For anyone to be told this, it’s the worst thing in the world, but even more difficult when you’re under the ‘typical’ age for this kind of cancer.

I’m coming up to 2 years since my diagnosis (3 lines of chemotherapy and 2 surgeries later - stoma surgery and removal of my right ovary & primary tumour), the ‘journey’ definitely hasn’t been easy but I’ve learnt so much along the way. First of all, that unfortunately cancer does not care who you are or how old you, despite what a GP or the media may tell you. I highly advise people to advocate for themselves or those around them to ensure they get the help they need, sooner rather than later as it is known that the earlier you are diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. We know when something isn’t right with our bodies and we shouldn’t have to fight with professionals to hear us but your life is just as important as everyone elses.

My other advice is to make sure you surround yourself with those who love you and offer you support and accept their help when you really need it, it’s a tough thing to go through, mentally and physically but you should never have to go through it alone.

For what it’s worth, I will continue to spread awareness while I still can. #NeverTooYoung

I had been experiencing "stomach grumbling" and a bit of discomfort, so visited my GP back in November last year. She suggested I do a stool sample test for bowel cancer. This came back as negative and there was no sign of blood in my poo. But my stomach noises and discomfort got progressively worse. I did return to my GP, who booked me in for a blood test and ultra sound. But things then snowballed very quickly- I experienced extreme hiccups, stomach pain and vomiting. I got taken into hospital, where a CT scan revealed I had a tumour, which was removed 24 hours later. The diagnosis was Stage 2 bowel cancer! The surgery went well and I managed to avoid having a stoma bag. I was in hospital for 12 days in total and got home 3 days before Christmas!
I am now half was through 4 cycles of preventative chemotherapy. I feel very lucky that it got caught when it did.
My advice would just be very persistent with your GP and try if you can to have a CT scan or colonoscopy if your stomach issues continue, even after undertaking the stool sample test.

I am a wife, mum of 3, director of my own property leasing firm and was diagnosed with stage 4 rectal cancer with liver metastasis in August 2023, I had a very slight change in bowel movements but I was recovering from a hysterectomy due to endometriosis I had in Aug 22 so bowels take time to recover I was told, it was the pain in my right shoulder every so often that made me revisit my GP, I was told various stories and finally they did lots of tests and scans and discovered the pain was from my liver mets.
I soon began chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy ahead of my liver resection in April 24 and proctectomy surgery and now have a permanent stoma nicknamed ‘Sheila’ in July 24.
I have managed to continue working while I could, living my life and even managed to sit in my secretary chair only 5 weeks post op at The Grampian Forest Rally! A positive mindset and strength has got me through this battle! I’m now looking forward to being part of Courage on the Catwalk in Aberdeen for a local charity Friends of Anchor who support so many families in the north east of Scotland. ❤️

I have had Diverticular Disease for as long as I can remember and problems with my bowels and bloating/sore stomach. Over Christmas 2020 I was constantly at my GP and being told my excessive tiredness was due to my age (46), or heavy periods. I had had a coil fitted in the November of 2020, so I knew this wasn’t the case. By March 2021, I started seeing a female GP who was amazing and just wouldn’t accept things without searching for a reason why I was so tired. She asked me to do a QFIT test and phoned me in April to say it was very high and I was on the ‘urgent’ list for an endoscopy and colonoscopy. As this was during Covid, the waiting lists were ridiculous and I was at the point of going private when I finally had the tests done in August 2021, mainly due to me calling the hospital and annoying them. I was told I had a tumour in my bowel and was operated on at the start of October. I developed an illeus after a week in hospital and was seriously unwell. After a second emergency op, I began to feel better and was discharged after 2 weeks, which was the longest I hadn’t seen my 4 children for. That was the hardest part of this. All tests showed that the tumour hadn’t spread and 29 lymph nodes were clear. I still have Diverticular Disease which is much worse now due to having 2/3rds of a bowel, but a huge scar down my stomach and a weird shaped stomach are a small price to pay.

At the start of 2024, age of 43, I become unwell with vomiting, with no improvements after 5 days my GP advised me to go to A&E where I was then told I needed urgent surgery due to a blockage in my bowel, after surgery I was told the cause of the blockage was bowel cancer. It was totally unexpected and I NEVER thought I’d get cancer under age 50, I had mild symptoms and just dismissed them for a few reasons - lack of insight, too busy to see my GP, I didn’t want to feel like I was wasting time or making a thing over nothing ..but it WAS something, I want others to think less like I did back then and always put themselves before the busyness of life!
In the months leading up to becoming unwell I had passed small amounts of blood, I’d had
persistent and unexplained changes in bowel habit, unexplained weight loss, tiredness and a pain under my left rib.
After bowel surgery where they removed the tumour causing the blockage, I then went on to have 6 months of adjuvant chemo, I was so thankful I got to ring that bell at the end of treatment and a year on, I’m happy to say I got the all clear. I’m now back to work, working as a mental health nurse and life is pretty much back to normal again for me.
I consider myself incredibly lucky it was caught at stage 2 and was treatable! This experience has really made me my appreciate my life! And my final tip is “please always get checked out even if symptoms are mild”

I thought my symptoms were due to drinking heavily after a marriage breakup and thinking it was irritable bowel sydrome, I got the bowel cancer test through the post and I lt took me about a month todo it, I finally done it and within 4/5 days had a result of needing a colonoscopy as I had blood in my poo, a couple of weeks went by and I had my colonoscopy done which showed instantly that I had a cancerous tumour which need removed very soon, I couldn’t take all the information in as it didn’t feel real, I’m glad my friend came with me as she was able to explain it to me afterwards, I had surgery 6weeks later to remove part of my bowel, I was ok to return home on the third day after surgery and I took really poorly and was in hospital for ten days, I finally come home and I thought I couldn’t cope on my own and I didn’t want to carry on, my son saw how I was and took me under his wing to help me, I was stage 3 and if it wasn’t for the postal test, the nurse said 5 years and I wouldn’t be able to see my grandchildren grow up, I’m telling people now to make sure they do the test or know anyone with any symptoms etc don’t hesistate, it is a lifesaver, I still can’t grasp 7 months later how quick it all happened but I’m glad I did and I’m still here.

I was diagnosed with bowel cancer on January 4th 2024 at the age of 60, following a bowel screening test. The FIT test returned an abnormal reading, I was invited for a colonoscopy, a tumour was found in the rectal area. I was told immediately after the colonoscopy that it was very likely to be cancer. I had no symptoms, so it really did come from nowhere.
I had APR surgery and a permanent ileostomy, followed by 6 months of adjuvant chemotherapy, which I tolerated very well. After a difficult 3 week stay in hospital, I made a remarkably quick recovery. I was back working on the tools 6 weeks post surgery. My life now, is totally how it was pre surgery, my stoma is a minor inconvenience and certainly doesn’t stop me doing anything.
I tell as many people as I can of the importance of sending the test kit back, when it drops through the letterbox. I was so lucky that my cancer had not gone through the bowel wall, it was caught early.

I was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer around May last year (2024) I’m 38 years old.

I have suffered with Crohn’s disease for most of my life. I had surgery on my buttock area to remove an abscess as a result of a fistula that formed off my colon. A stitch called a ‘seton’ was placed in sitúe to stop further infections and I lived with this for the last 15 years with very little symptoms, other than the area around the wound would occasionally feel inflamed and more sensitive. I was prescribed infliximab and adilimimab over the years and these seemed to help ‘flare ups’, but nothing ever fully helped the fistula to heal.
The tumour was found during an MRI which was performed due to what I thought was another abscess or ‘flare up’. The tumour itself was actually found in the fistula, and not directly in the bowel. Apparently very rare! What can I say, I like to be special!!
Firstly, I had a colostomy to defunction me, and then I had 12 rounds of chemo followed by 5 weeks of chemo radiotherapy. I’m now waiting for my surgery to remove the tumour, my colon and rectum. A plastic surgeon will then shape me a nice new ass. This will leave me with a bag for life, a sewn up bum hole and it will take away the crohns with it! Hopefully the solution to all my problems!!
I can’t thank the kind doctors and nurses at Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone hospitals enough and the NHS in general. The care I’ve received has always been incredible!
I’ve stayed relatively fit and healthy through out this and I think that has definitely helped with my recovery and outlook on things. Positivity is key! Your body is an incredibly resilient thing, but we should always listen to it when things aren’t feeling right.
Always go to your GP when you’re experiencing abnormal symptoms and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Having issues with your bowels, poo or anything related shouldn’t be embarrassing. We all poo and we shouldn’t make it hard for people to talk about. It’s only natural!

My father, David, had very mild symptoms but didn't think much of it, however, when he went to get it checked, they diagnosed him with stage 4 bowel cancer in 2018 when he was 55 and I was 10 years old.

I spent a lot of my childhood living with the fact that my dad was ill, but I didn't understand it fully. My father spent the last 5 years of his life doing everything he wanted to in between hospital visits, chemotherapy and operations, like travelling when he could and watching my sister and I work through school. He took my sister to university for her first year in September 2023, and told me he doesn't think he's going to make it to my 16th birthday.

I can't help but wonder how different things would have been if he had gone to the doctor sooner.

He passed away in November 2023.

Up to the age of 77 I regularly did long walks in the Chilterns, while a couple of times a year I walked for up to four days at a time in Snowdionia, carrying a big rucksack and wild camping. I used to throw away the screening kits I received in the post.
But towards the end of 2019 I noticed I sometimes wanted to use the toilet again in the evening as well as the morning. By the start of 2020 this had become a regular occurence, I was aware that something wasn't right, and then I started seeing blood stains.
Since then my life has canged irreversibly.
I was fast tracked for diagnosis and surgery for bowel cancer, after which I was incapacitated for three months while the incision healed. But in a further three months a second tumour was found and I had to undergo the same process all over again, and this time a stoma was fitted to my abdomen. It was removed after 11 months in a third operation.
Now in 2025 I am still cancer free but I have not recovered from various after effects from things like internal nerve damage. Most of my interests have become past interests. No more striding across Welsh hillsides, no more foreign travel, while I am less able to cope with my beloved garden.
So please, use those test kits, don't throw them away like I did, will you?

I was diagnosed with Bowel cancer in 2023, unfortunately it wasn’t caught early on and has since spread to my liver and kidney. It’s stage 4 and not curable. I’m undergoing chemotherapy to hopefully keep the tumours at bay and buy me more time.

If I’d read the signs and got things checked earlier, it would be a very different story. My symptoms were nothing more than a low grade tummy ache that seemed to be worse in the mornings and a tiny bit of blood when I went to the loo. I shrugged it off as nothing major and only got things checked after months when the tummy pains got worse.

My message is to listen to your body and get any niggles, no matter how small, checked.

My daughters, Amelia and Maddie, have been incredible throughout these past few years. The love, care and bravery they have shown has been inspirational and kept me going through the darkest of times.

Amelia is running the London Marathon for Bowel Cancer UK this year. She’s a star, determined to raise as much money and awareness as possible.

Watching her run will be a huge milestone for me this year.

My story started in early 2021 when I was 19 years old. I began seeing blood in my stool and experiencing abdominal pain, lower back and fatigue.

From may 2021- November 2023 I went to my GP and A&E with these symptoms almost 30 times in total, each time I was told it was something else and that I was “too young” for bowel cancer.

In October 2023 I was told I’d have to wait 60 weeks for a colonoscopy. This wasn’t good enough so I continued going to the doctor until I finally got given a colonoscopy on the 30th of November 2023 and was then told it was cancer.
several scans then confirmed I had stage 3 bowel cancer at the age of 22.

I had my eggs collected in January 2024 followed by 25 rounds of chemo-radiation, 12 weeks of chemotherapy and In August 2024 I had the tumour removed and was fitted with a permanent stoma. I was given the all clear in September 2024 and was told I required no further treatment after my surgery.

Due to the late diagnosis and the treatment needed I am now perimenopausal at the age of 23 and may never be able to bear a child.

Bowel cancer is on the rise in younger people and I’d like my story to help raise awareness and end the “too young” stigma around bowel cancer. #nevertooyoung💙

I suffered from irregular bowel habits for many years and also with hemorrhoids. In 2022 I started to need to open my bowels more urgently and the movements became looser. My stools were often covered with a bloody mucus, and for a while I convinced myself that because the blood wasn't in the stool (it was on it) that it was probably caused by piles. I had no weight loss and no tummy pain, but as the bloody mucus became worse I eventually went to my doctor who advised a FIT test. When blood was identified I was then fast tracked for a colonoscopy which showed a small tumour just inside my rectum. A CT then MRI scan followed which diagnosed stage 2 rectal cancer. My surgeon advised me that as the tumour was so low in my colon, my entire rectum and Anus would need removing and I would need a permanent stoma.
I had a robotic APR within weeks and spent the following week in hospital attached to various drains.
A few weeks after being discharged I met with my surgeon who told my that cancerous cells had been present in some of the lymph nodes that were removed along with the tumour, so my cancer was increased to stage 3 and I was given a course of XELOX chemo (which had some unpleasant side effects, but didn't result in hair loss).
My course of chemo finishes in February 2023 and since then I have had a further colonoscopy, 3 ct scans and 6 monthly blood tests, all of which have been clear so far!
Living with a sewn up bottom (I hate the expression 'Barbie Butt') takes some getting used to, as does adapting to life with a permanent stoma but it doesn't stop me living life to the full, working, eating and drinking what I like and enjoying holidays abroad.
I count myself lucky and am very thankful to our wonderful NHS. It is always in the back of my mind that the cancer may return, and I appreciate every day.
My advice to anyone who notices blood in or on their poo is to request a FIT test from your doctor. It may be nothing, but if it is cancer, early diagnosis is key.

I am running London Marathon on 27th April for Bowel Cancer UK.

6 weeks to the day of London Marathon my mum sadly passed away. This is our story:

My family was devastated in 2023 when Mum was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer. The shock only deepened when we learned the underlying cause: a genetic mutation known as Lynch Syndrome, which I have since discovered I have also inherited.

Lynch Syndrome significantly increases the risk of developing certain cancers, often before the age of 50, with the highest risk being Bowel Cancer.

My auntie, in recent months, has also been diagnosed with Bowel Cancer, and now more of our family have been confirmed to have Lynch with more waiting for the test. We now face the prospect of more cancer diagnoses in our family.

My mission is to raise awareness of Lynch Syndrome to ensure early testing and preventative care is accessible. I have started my preventative care journey which sadly my mum never had as she never knew she had this. She has saved me and others in our family by giving us the knowledge which is power.

I’m only just starting my bowel cancer journey but also had breast cancer in 2023. Not connected, just bad luck.
In November 2024 I noticed my stools changed. I was 50 & this was my only symptom. They became very small & kind of fluffy round the edges & disintegrated, or long & pencil thin. There was blood with them. I felt the urge to go often first thing in the morning & very little came out. After 2 weeks I went to my GP & did a FIT test. I was referred for a colonoscopy which unfortunately took 4 months before I had it.
I thought it would be polyps. I got an 8cm rectal tumour instead unfortunately. That was 3 weeks go. I’ve had MRI & CT scans & seen a consultant who outlined the treatment plan.
I have an appointment with an oncologist in 2 weeks. Shortly after that I will start 6 weeks of chemoradiotherapy. Then at least 10 weeks with no treatment, while the radiotherapy continues to work in my body to shrink the tumour. Then I’ll have surgery, an anterior resection. I might need a temporary stoma bag. I might need chemo after surgery. I’m just going with whatever they tell me is the best option to make me better!
It’s going to be around 12 months of disruption which isn’t great as I’m self employed & live on my own. Luckily I have huge support from family & friends. That’s so important. I feel positive & determined to beat this. It’s daunting but I feel strong & ready to face the horrible treatment I’m going to have to endure.
I would urge anyone who’s concerned that they have a bowel problem, to be persistent with getting help. Don’t let your GP fob you off. My GP was very proactive, it was just the next stage before the colonoscopy & diagnosis that took a while. Chase appointments & results & make a nuisance of yourself if you have to. You know your own body!

Trev was a keen walker, swimmer and golfer and in November 2023 he started to lose a bit of weight unintentionally along with a bit of discomfort in his rib area. He put this down to pulling a muscle and ignored it for a few months. In Feb 2024 Trev had an asthma review with his GP and when he was there he mentioned the pain and how he was feeling abnormally tired. After a blood test he was referred for an ultrasound, then a CT scan, colonoscopy and MRI where he was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer that had spread to his liver and lungs.

Sadly he was only given 6 months to live and only the option of palliative and hospice care support. Trev only experienced blood in his stools months after diagnosis and had a couple of pain management stays in our local hospice who were wonderful! Trev was very stubbornly independent and was adamant he would live as long as he could. Trev passed away March 2025 aged 71, 10 months after his diagnosis. He fought until the very end but it had spread to his bones, lymph nodes and spleen in a short period of time.

Trev’s father also died of bowel cancer at aged 60 so he had regular screenings but the last one 15 months before diagnosis all came back fine. Trev was so positive, so strong and so amazing! He proved the prognosis wrong and fought until the very end, even having fish and chips with family a couple of days before he passed away. If you feel tried and lose weight unintentionally please don’t feel silly to see a GP, if it’s not normal for you then it could be something serious.

I was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer in Dec 2017 at the age of 38.

I had been having irregular bowel movements for a few months but didn’t think much about it. (Note: no bleeding)
In the week leading up to when I was diagnosed, I had bad stomach pains, was unable to keep any food down and I also felt lethargic.

I went to an out of hrs clinic at the end of Nov 2017, where I was told that I had a stomach ulcer. I went to my GP the next day and was told that I had colic, and given a fibre gel sachet. On 30 Nov 2017 (2 days later) I went back to the same GP practice but saw a different GP. I was told that I indeed had colic, and was told to double the fibre gel dosage.
At this stage I wasn’t thinking it was anything sinister, so bowel cancer wasn’t even on my radar. I was apologising for wasting their time when they probably had more pressing matters to attend to. That same evening, my wife ordered me to go to A&E as I was in so much pain. I had an x-ray that evening and was kept in hospital overnight.
The next day while in hospital I was given a CT Scan.
On 2 Dec (day 3) I had a scope which was when I was diagnosed with having a blockage (bowel cancer). Within 70 mins of the scope & diagnosis, I was in the theatre having emergency surgery.
During surgery, they identified that the tumour had fully blocked the bowel. I woke up after a 7 hour op to be told that the cancer had spread (to the omentum) & that I had a stoma, so I had to get my head around that too which was a bit of a shock. (I later got this reversed just under a year later in Nov 2018.)
When I went to meet my Oncologist in Jan 2018 in view of starting my chemo, she said that I had stage 4 bowel cancer before surgery, but they were now treating it as stage 3.

Treatment wise, I had eight cycles of chemo over 6 months.I had the usual side effects, including sensitive to cold and having tingling in my hands (which I still have to the day). I also felt lethargic and I had numbness in my feet, which always feels cold to this day.

In 12 days short of a year, I’d had emergency surgery lasting 7hrs, a stoma, 6 months of chemo, numerous scans, the all clear and another long op lasting almost 8hrs to them have the stoma reversed back to normal again.
After diagnosis, I asked my GP why it was missed and was told that it wouldn’t have even be on their radar because I was only 38.

Being diagnosed with bowel cancer isn’t a death sentence, it’s an inconvenience. A positive attitude goes a long way.

The importance of early diagnosis just cannot be over emphasised as I found out in January 2022.
I had a nagging stomach ache that I initially put down to indigestion and, as it continued, perhaps to a pulled muscle from swinging a club at a golf ball too hard!
After a couple of weeks I decided to consult my GP but as getting a quick face to face appointment is pretty hard I filled out an econsult form on my surgery website.
I had a telephone call the following day from a GP and after running through my symptoms she asked me to have a blood test at the surgery and a FIT test would be there for me to collect.
I used the test kit within days and within a week my GP was back on the phone to explain that there had been a problem with the test and I would be referred for a colonoscopy.
To cut a long story short the colonoscopy showed I had bowel cancer, I was referred for a scan which fortunately showed that it had not spread and within a few weeks I underwent surgery.
This was followed by four months of chemotherapy after one of the 18 lymph nodes removed during surgery was shown to be cancerous.
I have since had two 'all clear' scans and will forever be thankful I didn't ignore that dull ache and grateful to the GP I never saw face to face.

Life was good, then in June 2022 my mum was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died 2 months later. My dad was being treated for liver cancer at the same time and died 5 months later. Shortly after my mum passed I noticed I was getting stomach pains pretty much every time I ate something and was getting narrow stools with black specks so went to the doctors who said it was IBS due to stress, I kept looking up the symptoms and they continually pointed me towards bowel cancer so I went back to the GP and was given a FIT test which came back as showing a lot of blood so was booked in for a colonoscopy. I kept getting told not to worry due to my age (39) and it will just be polyps, but it turned out to be bowel cancer. Everything moved very fast from then on. I wasn't too shocked as I think I already suspected it was cancer and luckily it hadn't spread. A few weeks later I had open surgery to remove part of my large bowel and a month later was well enough to attend my dads funeral and then start four months of ‘mop up’ chemo as they found it had spread to some of my lymph nodes. I was given the all clear in August and went on a nice holiday but when I was there I noticed the same symptoms again and had a colonoscopy when I got back and then a CT scan as they thought I had some scar tissue but it turned out that the cancer had already come back and I met a new surgeon, who advised us of my options and said it would probably come back again if I had the same op and a total proctocolectomy with ileostomy would be the best chance to get rid of it for good, so I said ‘yes please do whatever you can to keep me here’, I didn’t want to really know what the op involved and completely trusted whatever he was going. A few weeks later I had the op and woke up with a stoma bag and my large bowel and bum gone. I ended up back in hospital a few times over the next few months but everyone at Watford General hospital were really good. Everything has settled down now and apart from being tired and feeling sick sometimes I really can’t complain, I’m still here. After a lot of testing, it looks like the cancer is down to genetics (lynch syndrome) and I am currently having 6 monthly CT surveillance scans and waiting to see a new genetics team to discuss going forward. My wife and children have been brilliant and nothing but supportive even though I think they have been through more than me, and I couldn’t have done this without them.

My Journey Through Rectal Cancer: A Hard-Learned Lesson

My rectal cancer was missed because my GP didn’t see rectal bleeding as a red flag. I wasn’t examined, no investigations and my FIT test was clear—but a negative FIT in a patient with bleeding is like a mechanic saying my pancake-flat tyre is fine because he can’t see the air escaping.

In hindsight, I should have insisted on further tests, but sometimes we learn the hard way.

Fast forward 18 months, and I found myself in A&E after a tumour prolapse. I was told I was fine. The following day, a new GP examined me, felt the tumours, and referred me on a two-week wait pathway.

Navigating Rectal Cancer:

It felt like trying to climb Snowdon in high heels, on a freezing day, with no coat, no phone, and no map. The path was treacherous, covered in ice, and so foggy I could barely see where I was going.

I did three things that supported my journey:

1. Educating Myself

I learned everything I could about cancer, rectal cancer, my histology, treatment options, side effects, and the best ways to manage them. Suddenly, I had a map. It wasn’t perfect—some parts were missing—but I could see some path through the fog of uncertainty.

2. Advocating for Myself

I learned how to speak up and ask directly for what I needed. Not everything I wanted was possible, but a lot was—and because of that, I got to swap my high heels for a comfy pair of trainers. Now, the icy patches and uneven ground weren’t quite so daunting.

3. Using Support & Understanding Real Self-Care

I leaned on cancer charities, support groups, and resources that offer help at every stage—emotional support, education, relaxation, nutrition, and exercise. For me, the goal was simple: quality of life.

I redefined self-care: right now, my basic needs are not optional. Taking care of myself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Now, I had a coat and a rucksack filled with food and water to help me keep going.

Reaching the Summit & Looking Ahead:

I made it to the top of Snowdon. Now, I need to navigate back down.
I’m hoping my journey down starts with clear results from my year-one CT scan and colonoscopy (got my Netflix binge ready for prep day!). If not? It’ll be like someone booting me back down to the bottom but I’ll have to find a way to level up—maybe by adding some hiking poles.

P.S. A Note on Low Anterior Resection Syndrome:

LARS is common after rectal cancer surgery. After trying lower-level interventions for a reasonable time, I requested a referral to St. Mark’s Hospital, and my amazing surveillance nurse referred me.

Recently, they started me on irrigation (not for everyone, but a game-changer for me). It has given me freedom. I no longer have to drag a portaloo up the mountain— trust me, that thing was heavy.

Today marks one year since I received my Stage 2 Bowel Cancer diagnosis. It came as a huge shock to both me and my family. At the time, I felt I was in great health, having recently completed the Saddleworth Three Peaks and considering myself quite fit for an older man. I had no significant symptoms, no pain, just a bit more fatigue than usual, which I attributed to a busy family life (having seven children and thirteen grandchildren will do that to you!).

I had always been diligent with screenings, so when my FIT test arrived, I completed it without hesitation. However, further tests and a colonoscopy revealed several lesions and tumours throughout my large intestine, anal canal, and anus, all at Stage 2. From the moment I received my diagnosis on 2 April 2024, everything moved incredibly fast. The Colorectal Team at Oldham Hospital was nothing short of fantastic to both me and my family.

Unfortunately, after additional tests and an endoscopy, I was given the difficult news that the best course of action would be a pan-proctocolectomy, complete removal of my large intestine, anal canal, and rectum, resulting in a permanent ileostomy. This was devastating news, and I struggled to comprehend what life would look like afterward. However, just nine weeks after my initial diagnosis, I underwent surgery. What an incredible NHS we have.

Recovery was challenging, both physically and mentally. At one point, it seemed uncertain whether I would even make it out of the hospital, as my body struggled to adjust to the changes. It took immense resilience and strength to keep going, and my family became my rock. My wife and children were relentless in their support, staying by my side day and night. My grandchildren, as always, provided both love and motivation, along with a few stern words! One even insisted I get up and do star jumps just two weeks post-surgery. I wasn’t quite ready for that, but their encouragement gave me the fight I needed.

The picture I have uploaded is with my surgeon, Mr. Siddique, and my Macmillan keyworker, Lucy the day they told me I was cancer FREE and would not require post-surgery chemotherapy or radiotherapy. I owe everything to Mr. Siddique and his team, and I would shout from the rooftops how grateful I am for their care and expertise.

One year on, I am back to walking, with a 10K planned for this weekend. My grandchildren keep me active and busy, I spend time with family and friends, I go to the gym, and I finally feel adjusted to my new normal. I never thought I would get here, but here I am.

Please encourage your loved ones to complete their screenings, it saved my life.

My husband and I have been travelling the Bowel Cancer path since 2021, dealing with surgeries, chemo, surveilance, more surgery, more chemo, DVT's and an ischaemic bowel. We are now on the third pathway in as many years dealing with metastatic tumors in his liver and pericardium. Talking to the old man at the weekend he finally admitted symptoms going back 2yrs before before he underwent emergency surgery and nearly lost his life. 'I was a typical man and ignored the signs' was what he said........Don't ignore the signs, don't be too embarassed, don't be put off when trying to get a GP appointment, don't be fobbed off !!- If I knew he had these signs I would have badgered him to do something about it.
Life is far to short to not act when something abnormal is happening, you don't know what's around the corner.
Together we support each other on this journey , the man is a fighter, the bravest person I know and together we will NOT give up fighting for every good day we get - live for today, everyday.
So check your poo, do the screening when it arrives in the post and act on the early signs of problems.

On 19th April 2022 my family's lives changed forever, when my youngest son was diagnosed with bowel cancer at the age of 47.He had a six month history of abdominal pain, tiredness and a change in bowel habit before he contacted his GP about the pain, which was his main concern at the time. He put the tiredness down to working hard and the change in bowel habit down to a bit of IBS, so did not mention those symptoms to the GP. There was no sign of blood in his stools, so it never occurred to him that his symptoms might be due to bowel cancer, even though we have a family history of bowel cancer on both sides of the family. He had three telephone consultations with his GP. He could not get a face-to-face appointment, so decided to make an appointment at a private hospital. Blood samples showed that he was anaemic and there were suspicious markers in his blood. Following a colonoscopy, CT and MRI scans he was diagnosed with a 10cm malignant tumour in his sigmoid colon with lymph node involvement in his pelvis. My son was then placed back into the NHS system where he had chemotherapy to shrink the tumour, but this failed and he got spread to his peritoneum. He was told that the tumour could not be removed and they would have to see what was driving it. He was tested for the genetic hereditary condition called Lynch syndrome and found to be positive. After this diagnosis he was commenced on immunotherapy and scans showed that he was responding well to the treatment. After a year of immunotherapy he had a complete metabolic response to the treatment and the tumour disappeared. He then had surgery to remove the area where the tumour had been and a temporary ileostomy. In total he had two years of immunotherapy and remains cancer free.

I would advise anyone who thinks there is something not right with their body to visit their GP and be persistent. Don't be afraid to challenge your GP. Don't be fobbed off. We are all unique. You know your body better than anyone else. Don't let anyone tell you that you are too young to have bowel cancer,or any other cancer. Cancer does not discriminate Knowledge is power. So, be as informed as you can about bowel cancer and Lynch syndrome, especially if you have a family history of bowel cancer. Research and science and treatments are improving all the time. NEVER GIVE UP HOPE.

I went to the doctors because I was feeling exhausted and irritable, I thought I was peri-menopausal. A blood test later told me I was severely anaemic and a FIT test from the doctor confirmed blood in my stool. A month later a colonoscopy showed up cancer in bowel. I was totally shocked as I had barely any symptoms and felt fine. In hindsight I had had a mild ache in my abdominal area on and off for months but it was so mild I would notice it and then forget about it. My other main symptoms were related to my anaemia such as a pulsing or rushing sound in my ears like my blood pulsing through my head, also a strange and insatiable craving for mints which I later learned was my body craving essential minerals. I was a busy mum working full time and I felt tired but who doesn’t in today’s world, I had no idea I was so ill.
Thankfully my cancer was treatable with surgery and I didn't have any chemotherapy afterwards. The operation and recover were straightforward and I was back to good health soon after.

My name is Linda and I am 77 years old. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 bowel cancer with one positive node and venous invasion when I was 70. I knew, however, in November 2016 following a colonoscopy that something was wrong. I had high anterior resection in March 2017 where the above diagnosis was made. Fortunately, I feel due to the skill of my Surgeon and team, I did not need a stoma. This was followed by 8 sessions of chemotherapy. I hardly had any symptoms at all, just constipation, which I was prone to. I had no pain and did not lose weight. I went to see my GP after experiencing a mucousy discharge after a bowel movement which was intermittent. She prescribed laxatives for constipation. I eventually went back as this discharge persisted and there was blood in it. I was referred for colonoscopy. I had follow-ups with scans etc for 5 years. . I am pleased to say that I have been cancer free ever since with no symptoms whatsoever.

September 2009 whilst on holiday my bowel habits changed and I was seeing blood. I knew straight away that something was seriously wrong. It took me until early November to pluck up the courage to see my doctor. Thank goodness my doctor listened to me and referred me to my local hospital. After CT and MRI scans it was confirmed that I had cancer but, luckily for me the cancer had not spread any further than my bowel. I had surgery in January 2010 when my bowel was removed. It was so low down in my rectum that I now have a stoma and the opening to my bowel is stitched up. Whilst I was still in hospital my consultant came to see me herself to tell me that it was Stage 1 cancer and that it was rare for a patient to have Stage 1. To say I was happy is an understatement, I was ecstatic. Life with a stoma is no problem at all; from day one I’ve never looked back. To anyone who has the slightest of change in your bowel habits go to see your doctor, yes it’s scary, yes it’s frightening but the alternative doesn’t bear thinking about.

I had a bad experience of Kidney Stones in May 2023. A resulting scan in that area showed my Bowel region also. Following this I was advised by my local hospital to take a colonoscopy as the scan showed a thickening of the sigmoid area of my bowel. A date was arranged to have this done and the lovely ‘Movie Prep’ was collected. At this time I was having ultra sound treatment at hospital in order to break up the kidney stones in order to pass them thru my pee. Because of this I cancelled the colonoscopy. Early 2024 I was experiencing pain in my lower stomach area and after many visits to my local doctors surgery and hospital I was told a colonoscopy was required asap. On my hospital visit to have the treatment they had to stop the colonoscopy as they could not get the camera past the thickening of the sigmoid area without causing damage. They informed me it was 95% certain that it was cancer in that area. Further info revealed my cancer was stage 4 and prior to chemo I had to have a Stoma procedure to keep the bowel area clear prior to the chemo treatment. Luckily, I was invited to go to Christie’s in Manchester as they found HER 2 in my biopsy and they were offering Clinical Trials at Christie’s and looking for volunteers. Following about 12 sessions of chemo plus the trial stuff my cancer had reduced enough in size for them to operate. However, the cancer had spread to my bladder area so the decision was made to remove my bladder completely during the operation. I am now running with two bags on my stomach one being a poo Stoma bag and also a Urology bag for my pee next to it. My Stoma is reversible so will be looking at having this done early 2016 but the Urology side is now permanent. If I can offer any advice it would be that if you get invited for a colonoscopy don’t delay get one done. Thanks, Phil 🌛

When you're told you have cancer and why I'm posting this:
Just before our family holiday in August 2024 I was having stomach aches on and off over a period of months, to be honest I was putting it down to stress and grief of losing my father earlier in the year. The dull aches in my lower stomach, fatigue for no reason, simply just not feeling right became a daily concern.
I can honestly say - this is the day I like to say my husband saved my life, by reminding me and texting me to see if I had called the doctors to go and get checked out.
As I have a habit like most of us of putting ourselves on the lower list of priorities.
After a few tests, I was told approximately less than 3 weeks after my initial test, I had colon cancer (which has come from a small polyp that was there many years ago)
My surgery has taken place and thanks to the amazing team at Royal Preston Hospital, they have managed to remove all the cancer.
Right now I'm so happy for my life, as it definitely flashed by me...
I feel so extremely lucky that it was diagnosed so early as it could have been a lot worse.
Why am I writing this?
Simply to remind everyone how important it is to go get checked out if something doesn't feel right. Take a minute from your busy schedule and listen to your body.
Go and get yourself checked out!
Not feeling right-Go and get yourself checked out!
Feeling fatigued-Go and get yourself checked out!
Toilet works not the same-Go and get yourself checked out!
Work is important, but life is so precious.
Have a wonderful week everyone and don't forget to Go and get yourself checked out!

In the spring of 2021, I decided to go on a diet—I was feeling a little chubby! At 55, I lost weight over the summer, but friends began to worry that I had lost too much.

That September, I received an NHS FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) through the post. Hampshire was one of the first counties to roll it out for 55-year-olds. I had no symptoms, but I completed the test and sent it off, thinking little of it.

Then, the letter arrived. Blood had been found in my sample. Further tests were necessary.

A colonoscopy confirmed what I never expected—I had a tumor. The doctors were 99.9% sure it was cancer. A CT scan followed to check if it had spread. I held my breath, waiting for the results.

Relief—it was contained in my bowel. Surgery was scheduled for December.

But life had other plans. Two weeks before my operation, the tumor shifted, blocking my bowel. A stent was attempted, but it wasn’t successful. The following Tuesday, I had emergency surgery to fit a stoma bag. Four days later, I was home, adjusting to a reality I never imagined.

My main surgery was pushed to February 2022. I named my stoma ‘Stanley,’ but we were not friends. The discomfort, the sounds—it was overwhelming. I longed for normality.

During my bowel cancer surgery, I was incredibly fortunate to have my stoma reversed. I was overjoyed! But the recovery was tough. Five days in high dependency, four days in isolation due to COVID restrictions, and no visits from my husband. I sank into depression. I just wanted to go home.

After nine long days, I finally did. Nurses visited daily to change my dressings, then every other day. Step by step, I healed.

In April 2022, chemotherapy began. I chose the tablet form—eight pills a day, two weeks on, one week off, for six months. The side effects: blisters in my mouth, sore hands and feet, brain fog. But I pushed through.

Now, three years on, I am still cancer-free. Regular scans and colonoscopies confirm it.

I am one of the lucky ones. My FIT test saved my life. Had I ignored it, my story could have been very different.

Please, please, do not ignore yours when it arrives in the post. It takes minutes to complete but could give you years more to live.

It could save your life. ❤️

Not The Christmas I expected. Advanced Stage 3 Bowel Cancer
I started to feel tired constantly, walking upstairs left me breathless, I’d lost weight.
My wife had finally had enough of my moaning about been tired and told me in no uncertain terms “Either go and book in at the Doctors or quit the moaning!” (I didn’t know at the time, but this probably save my life..)
I got a Doctors appointment they said it could be IBS, then mentioned about my weight loss. I said “I’ve lost about 2st in 6 weeks without trying.” She seemed concerned and referred me to the gastro clinic, requested Bloods and gave me the poo sample pots.
The samples showed no signs of Cancer in my stool. The bloods came back I had an Iron Deficiency and had a iron infusion. I went to see the gastroenterologist. His opening line to me was “I expected an 80yr old man to walk in with your Iron levels” we spoke about my toilet habits and other things, he decided that I needed the camera to see what was going off in my bowel…
My endoscopy appointment came through for the 21st December 2023. After the Scan, myself and my wife were directed into a side room. The lady delivered the hammer blow. They’d found something “We found a Tumour. It will be Cancer!” Tears from my wife and from myself. Along with a lot of expletives!”
I went for the CT Scan that day and then we had to wait for the results. This was the worst part for me laying awake at night, wondering!
In our meeting with the Surgeon, he explained that “It’s more advanced than they wanted it to be & only localised in my bowel”. The relief was immense it felt like the weight of the world had been lifted off my shoulders. I was ready to fight and wanted my plan.
My cancer was MSI High, chemotherapy wouldn’t work, they couldn’t operate at this point as my Tumour was to advanced. I could have immunotherapy, a new treatment that was less aggressive and target the cancerous cells.
My treatment started 13th February 2024.
1st May I was again admitted to Hospital, I had a partial blockage of my bowel. I had a Stoma Bag called Steve fitted. Felt like a new person and could eat again, I use to have conversations while changing him telling him to behave.
In August I got the news that I was ready for my operation. (More Tears!!)
13th September The operation lasted 6 hours they removed a third of my bowel and reversed my stoma. I got a call a week later to say they’d got all the Cancer and I was in remission.
I’m now 6 months down the line, still in remission and proud of my battle scars. Throughout my battle my wife has been amazing and kept me strong and made me speak to her about how I was feeling.

My story isn't about me, it's about my amazing and brave friend Lisa who died of bowel cancer earlier this year. She was diagnosed during the pandemic and her cancer was missed so many times. But even after her diagnosis and after knowing she was stage 4, she lived life like you wouldn't believe. She fundraised for charity, she investigated every treatment possible and she continued to be the most incredible mother to her four kids and wife and daughter to her incredible family. Aged just 44 when she died, this wasn't fair. Lisa, we miss you and we love you and we'll do whatever we can to make sure noone else has to go through this.

On the 5th April 2016 we lost my wonderful Dad to Bowel Cancer. He had been diagnosed just 8 weeks before.
He had clearly been poorly for a while and looking back at photos we can now see it but at the time didn’t notice.
My only advice, especially to men is, if there is anything different, if you are even slightly concerned seek medical advice. There is no need to be embarrassed, they have seen it all before.

I'd started to notice weight loss which seemed to accelerate. It didn't make sense I was dieting with my wife who was losing weight at a much steadier rate. I only got occasional diarrhea where literally I'd empty myself with several quick visits to the toilet. It was an ache in my side that got slowly worse and fatigue that sent me to the GP. At first we thought it might be a pulled muscle but the second time I went I was so drained the GP sent me to hospital. Checks showed I was anemic and a scan showed a growth on my large intestine.

I had blood transfusions and had emergency surgery a day later. 6 hours I was in theatre. It was apparently the biggest growth the surgeon had seen. Fast forward a month it was confirmed as bowel cancer and I was booked to go to Clatterbridge for chemotherapy. 12 cycles later I was told regular checks would be done. I originally shared my story on this site as at 42 I was never too young. Nearly 6 years later I'm still here and I always say if in doubt get checked I'm so grateful to the amazing NHS for saving my life to the point I'm now a porter!

Since I had my first poo test sent to me in the post every two years. I have done it straight away. Think the medical term is FIT. The test now is so much easier than the first tests. I had a test sent to me end Nov 2022. Beginning of Dec 2023 I received a letter informing me that the poo test was positive with blood in the sample. I had no other symptoms whatsoever. Had a colonoscopy on 21st Dec. Was told that a cancer tumour had been found. I had a scan on 28th Dec which confirmed the colonoscopy results. Had the operation to remove the tumour 16th Jan. All
went well no stoma or chemo needed I now have scans to check all is still ok. I was told that if I hadn’t done the poo test and the tumour was left I would be looking at stage 3 or 4 in a couple of years time. My message is and I would stand on the highest mountain and shout. Please please do not ignore the test that lands on your doorstep, it definitely saved my life and the cost to the NHS re chemotherapy etc. My nephew who is in his fifties had the test through the post he said he wasn’t going to bother with it. Then when he was told about me he decided to do the poo test. His test came back fine. It is not that unpleasant to do. I wonder how many people ignore this home test and end up with bowel cancer. I think the FIT (poo test) should be sent to people much younger than 50. My daughter who is 43 bought a test from boots and again as she is too young to be sent the test in the post. She again is fine. Now standing down my high horse.

The interesting thing about my cancer was how I found out. I as having tummy pains and after my wife bullied me I saw the doctor and had the tests. I had my operation in August 2024 after the local hospital got me fit - probable the fittest I've been for 20 years and I'm 82 years old!

I went into hospital on Monday morning and was out by Wednesday afternoon. The surgery was a complete success and I never had any pain following surgery.

I started my Chemotherapy treatment in October 2024 and it is due to finish in mid-April 2025. Of course there are side effects but none that I can't cope with with the help of the Day Unit I attend for my Chemotherapy sessions and the Macmillan Chemotherapy nurses who I can contact 24 hours a day.

At Halloween in 2022 I woke up with a very sore lower abdomen on my right side and went straight to my GP. He diagnosed an appendix problem and sent me directly to A&E where, the following morning, my appendix was taken out.
A biopsy was then carried out and a malignant tumour found. An MRI scan then showed tumours in the large intestine with mestases in the liver and right lung.
Shortly after Christmas, I had a PICC line fitted in my left arm and had six sessions of chemotherapy, with Oxaliplatin and Fluoracil being given intravenously.
Following the chemo I underwent a hemicolectomy (or as I like to call it “my punctuation adjustment - changing the colon to a semi-colon 😉), followed some time later by one third of my liver being removed.
Another scan then found than my lung tumour had grown, meaning that a 4 by 2 inch section had to be removed from my right lung. This last operation was followed by a further course of chemo, this time in tablet form.
Approaching the end of March 2025 I am now classified as “cancer free” and, subject to regular blood tests and scans, I hope to remain so.
My thanks go to the surgical and nursing staff who dealt with my liver and lung excisions. However, most importantly, throughout my cancer journey, my family and I have been fully supported by my specialist colorectal oncology nurses, who have always been there for us. Thanks to all the teams involved, I am now back on the golf course and fully back into society in sunny Rutland.
God bless the NHS!

I was diagnosed with bowel cancer just after my 40th birthday. After blood in the stools and bloated tummy I went to the GP and saw the nurse practitioner. 2 weeks later I was at the hospital having my first flexi- sigmoidoscopy, scans and colonoscopy. Within a few weeks the big C word was mentioned and with the news I was to have a permanent stoma too my life changed. However, being a nurse and having a wife who is also a nurse helped me be positive. The cancer was caught early at stage 2 and the team at the hospital were brilliant. 5 weeks of radio chemotherapy and then surgery I was sorted. Its been 7 years now and although I have a stoma, it's a small price to pay. Stay positive guys. You and your family can get through this and with the support of charities like Bowel Cancer UK we can beat this.

In 2022 my husband was diagnosed with Dementia. Whilst having a conversation about his health with his nurse I mentioned that he had passed a small amount of blood in his stool. No pain nothing else just this blood. A few days later we received a call to say that he had been booked in to have a colonoscopy. My husband seemed ok about the forthcoming appointment. Unfortunately he spoke to a couple of people about this procedure, they gave him some very stupid information which totally put him off having the procedure done. A few weeks down the line I managed to persuade him to go for the procedure, his dementia makes him quite angry and uncooperative at times. We received the medication for him to take before his procedure, I must say it’s not the nicest of medications but needs must. He went for his test. We waited for the result which we got about half an hour later. Cancer not something we were expecting to be honest. I cried, my husband said ok then what can be done. Within a week we had appointments for oncology, bloods scans x rays. Jim was so brave, he had 6 sessions of Radiotherapy followed by a small rest. He went in to hospital to have his operation the end of September. I’m in ore of my husband 9 hour op 3 days in intensive care 10 days in hospital and no words of complaint. I had a couple of hours with the nurse who showed me how to manage Jim’s colostomy bag. My husband had his bottom end sewn up which took a while to get used too. He has had a few little mishaps and we have shed a few tears but also we have managed quite a few laughs along his cancer journey. Jim is back in work he goes 5 days a week to a job he loves Saturdays is his messing around day. NHS staff have all been brilliant, District nurses ring me every month just to check he is doing ok. Few weeks ago he had his annual round of check ups. Test results all ok. Cancer has changed our lives but we can live with it. I still have my Jim although sometimes he does forget who I am 😂

In 2007 at the tender age of just 45 I had one noticeable symptom which was finding it difficult to pass stools. Rather than ignore this I went to my GP and due to my age where polyps can occur he wisely sent me for an x-ray where a 10cm tumour was detected.

I was quickly sent for a colonoscopy where a small sample was taken from the tumour and within 10 days I was told it was cancerous. Being told this was scary of course and when I got home my body went into shock and the tumour started to bleed heavily so I was admitted into hospital and the tumour was injected with adrenaline as it had bleed 17 times over four days. The adrenaline worked stopping the bleeding and I was sent home to recover before returning 10 days later for my operation to have the tumour removed. The operation was successful but I unfortunately got pneumonia post op and ended up on life support for 4 days as my lungs collapsed. Luckily I recovered in ITU and released 5 days later.

My story ended well I was 45 and now 63 and sharing my story to spread awareness as taking immediate action if you have any symptoms and change of bowel habit ultimately saved my life. Thank you NHS.

I'm Victoria and I was diagnosed with Stage 1 bowel cancer 3 years ago, when I was 35. My youngest daughter had just turned 2, my eldest daughter was about to turn 5, and we had just relocated to Hampshire. When I think back, I had been feeling very tired, and (although I hadn't realised) I was eating more but losing weight. However the moment that I spotted a dark bloody mucus in my stool, my heart sank, and I just knew something was very wrong. My first appointment with our new doctor and I was referred for a colonoscopy. I feel incredibly lucky that my concerns were taken seriously (despite being told that I would be extremely unlucky if it were cancer, and I did not have any of the risk factors). During the colonoscopy I saw the tumour on the screen, I saw them tattoo the tumour (not knowing that was what it was at the time) to mark it ready for surgery. The doctor asked if my husband was collecting me, and then I was taken to have tea and biscuits. In the cubicles next to me I could hear people being told 'we haven't found anything suspicious', meanwhile I wasn't being told anything. I was then taken into a small room to meet my husband with a doctor and a nurse. I was told that the tumour was almost certainly cancer, that I would need scans, major surgery, and a temporary stoma, and possibly chemotherapy. The next two weeks were incredibly tough, I sat next to my girls once they were in bed and sobbed each night. However, once the long wait for the full results was over, I met my bowel cancer nurse and my surgeon and was told that the tumour had been caught early. At that point I felt like the luckiest person in the entire world and have done ever since!!! Yes, the major surgery and recovery were hard, but then my treatment was over. I was very lucky not to need a stoma, or any further treatment!! The mental challenge of the whole experience has been far harder that the physical challenges for me, and it has taken me a very long time to get back into exercise and looking after myself. Each year I now have surveillance checks, and each time all the tough emotions come back. My bowel cancer nurse has been an amazing support throughout, and continues to be when she phones to check in. To anyone experiencing any of the changes that I have mentioned, go straight to the doctors, advocate for your own health and get the treatment that you require asap!!

In 2014 I received the bowel test kit. I held back on doing it as the previous one was clear. However my wife noticed the test kit in the bathroom and nagged at me to do it. I did, and received a reply stating that blood had been found in my stool, and to do another test to confirm. This also tested positive, and a few days later I received an appointment for a colonoscopy at the hospital.
This procedure proved that I had bowel cancer, and in May 2014 I had an operation (Right Hemicolectomy) to remove it. This was a success, and after some follow up appointments, I was told that I was clear of cancer. I now have a check up colonoscopy every 5 years, and still do the bowel test kits when they are sent to me.

Always encourage people to carry out the test when they receive them, and tell them my experience, if they are reluctant to do so.

I was diagnosed in September 2023 at the age of 50 after noticing intermittent blood in my stool and stomach pain. After seeking advice the relevant tests followed and I was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer (the moment my life changed). I underwent surgery soon after which resulted in a temporary ileostomy. Whilst recovering, my histology revealed it was a grade 3 tumour with cells in my lymph node and blood vessels, this meant 6 months of chemotherapy was needed (a long 6 months of many challenges). Following this I then had some unexplained issues noted on my first follow up scan which led to 6 months of more tests and more uncertainty due to the type and nature of my original tumour. It was then decided that I needed investigative surgery to take biopsies along with stoma reversal which I had December 2024. I am now navigating my way through bowel recovery and the effects of chemo but so thankful for the treatment I’ve received to get me to this far. At present nothing untoward was found so I will now start close surveillance and although I now live with the anxiety and uncertainty of possible recurrence, I appreciate all the simple things in life. Thanks for reading my story. If you have any symptoms please make sure you seek advice as soon as possible. Early diagnosis would mean less invasive treatment.

I got diagnosed with colon cancer on Friday 13th!! October 2023 and was told that I had a perforated bowel which required emergency surgery. My operation took place on Sunday 15th - big thanks to all at the hospital as their support and care was and remains first class. Although I now have a stoma for company, I'm living a full and active life walking many miles weekly with Chester my golendoole. On reflection I knew there was something wrong in the months before I fell ill but like many chose to bury my head, ridiculous given that my identical twin had also been diagnosed with colon cancer 7 years earlier! My daughter works in awareness for Bowel Cancer UK and I'm aware of the fantastic work they do in raising everyone's attention to this all to common cancer, well done guys!
Mark

Not long after my 58 birthday in March 2023 I received a fit test through the letterbox as part of the national bowel screening scheme. Luckily, or some may say unlucky this is how my bowel cancer was discovered. There were no obvious symptoms I was fit and well. Within weeks I had a diagnosis and the tumour and a large part of my bowel was removed. Two months later I was given the all clear the cancer hadn’t spread and they had managed to remove it all. This month is my two year anniversary my life is back to normal and a could not be more grateful to everyone who has supported me. My message to anyone who receives the screening kit through the post is to just do it. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain. Bowel cancer caught early enough is treatable and will save your life. It saved mine.

I had been ill for many years and never considered it could be bowel cancer. I was in hospital for something else and luckily mentioned my symptoms. The next day I was in surgery and feel very lucky. I was stage 3 at diagnosis and my treatment included surgery and chemotherapy. Whilst chemo was tough, it saved my life and I am grateful. This was over 10 years ago. If you or anyone you know has symptoms that can't be explained, please see your GP. The earlier cancer is diagnosed the kinder and more successful the treatment.

This is me and my beautiful, feisty and full of life Sister - Sharan Kullar.
In January 2021, we lost Sharan.
She was my sister, a mum to two beautiful babies and such a vital part of our family.
At the tender age of just 34, she was in her prime! 4 weeks to the day of her diagnosis we lost her to stage 4 Bowel Cancer which had spread to her liver and lungs.
I would say she lost her fight with bowel cancer, but she was never even given a chance to fight - her cancer was so aggressive she deteriorated within days.

Trust your bodies, get second or third opinions. Know what is normal for you, and what's not!

I was diagnosed in February of 2024 with stage three bowel cancer.
I remember waking up on a Sunday morning I noticed blood in the bathroom. This was my first ever symptom three days later after having blood in my stool I went to the doctors where after a fit test and a colonoscopy. I was told that awful news.
Moving onto March 2024 I had my lower bowel removed. I have no stoma and my tumour was removed by my amazing surgeon who said that the tumour had been in their years rather than months and I genuinely had no symptoms until the blood on that Sunday morning and I’m so thankful that I went to the doctors and acted on it.
After my operation I had chemotherapy as a preventative and fast forward to December 2024. I was told the fabulous news that the cancer was no longer in my body whilst I’m still under checks and observation for the next five years. I feel that have been given a second chance !
As scary as it is go and get checked if you have any of the symptoms because here I am after being diagnosed with stage three cancer and all clear and living my life to the full!

I was diagnosed with Bowel cancer in January 2022 aged 42 and had surgery in early Feb 2022, a laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy, where they removed most of my large intestine. I was extremely lucky they managed to remove the large stage 3 tumour entirely and I did not need a stoma (I was marked up for both types ahead of my surgery just in case, which was scary and the first thing I asked in recovery “do I have a bag?”)
I realised I needed a doctors appointment in October 2021, but at this point thought it was period pain that wasn’t going away, through the 6 week wait for my appointment the pain continued and grew and I could more readily relate it to after eating. At the appointment I was prescribed antispasmodics, it only took a couple of days to realise these were doing nothing, so another appointment was made. This was mid-December with a different doctor who gave me the tests that ultimately saved my life, I was sent away with a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) and I was also referred for a CT scan.
My FIT results showed blood in my poo, this was nothing I ever spotted, the result put me on a fast track referral and a January appointment for a colonoscopy. The wait until the appointment was awful, my pain continued to increase and I was getting constipated, meaning a lot of paracetamol, stool softeners and laxatives.
The colonoscopy showed exactly what we hoped it wouldn’t, I watched with interest as the camera passed through my bowels, getting to a point with a clear obstruction that looked nothing like the rest of the pink interior, I remember saying “that’s not a polyp is it?” and getting a reluctant “no”, they took biopsies, tattooed marker points and finished up quietly. I was then told that they believed the mass to be sinister but could not confirm until the biopsy results came through. My CT scan ended was on the same day and confirmed the presence of a large mass. More waiting ensued, I signed off work at this point as I really didn’t know how I felt or what I wanted people to know and I couldn’t face the questions or the potential for pity.
The results came back, it was cancer and surgery was swiftly booked. Surgery day was the hardest day of my life, saying goodbye to my family at the ward entrance at 6 in the morning as they couldn’t come in, waiting on my own and the absolute terror of being put under anaesthetic, fearful that I wouldn’t wake up, fearful that they wouldn’t get it all, fearful that my life might be forever impacted.
I did wake up, they did get it all and my life has only been minimally impacted, I am so absolutely grateful for all of those things but feel strangely guilty that I got off so lightly when so many do not.

My story started in early 2021. I had been struggling with lack of sleep for months. Really bad nights where I would still be awake at 3 or 4 in the morning. I decided to ring my doctors for help. They very kindly agreed to do blood tests and I was found to be low in iron. A FIT test was sent out and blood was found in my sample. I was then referred for a colonoscopy. I wasn’t too worried as I had had them before and nothing had been found. I was knocked sideways when I was told whilst still on the recovery room that something had been found and it was cancer. I was stunned as it turned on to be a grade 3 tumour. Four weeks later I had the operation to remove 18 inches of my bowel. It was a lonely few days as we were still in the pandemic and I couldn’t have visitors. I was so scared being dropped off by my husband to face the biggest thing I had ever had to deal with and be on my own. Very scary time. However I did get back home after 5 days in hospital and managed to spend my 61st birthday, which was a few days later, at home with my husband and I felt very lucky. Two weeks later I saw the consultant who unfortunately told me that cancer had been found in some lymph nodes that had been removed during the operation. Chemotherapy was advised and I was in a state all over again. I had already made my mind up though that I had to give myself the best chance possible to recover fully. I couldn’t tolerate the infusion unfortunately so I had to have the tablets which took all the skin off my feet and made me feel sick. My chemotherapy lasted for 6 months instead of 4 as I had to keep giving myself a break from the tablets in order to carry on once my feet became less sore. Anyway I am now 4 years down the line and although my health isn’t what it was, I still get very tired and my breathing isn’t brilliant some days due to the after effects of the chemotherapy, I feel very lucky to still be here and enjoying life. Taking one day at a time and not being hard on myself when I have a bad day really helps. One more year of checks and then I can call myself cancer free!

I have always had a great interest in sport and keeping fit, ate healthily, have not drunk too excess, never smoked so you can imagine my shock when I was diagnosed with rectal cancer. I did not fit the bill – I was too young, I was too healthy, I had no family history. But there it was a tumour ☹
So, I got on with making sure this cancer went away and would not come back. I was lucky as it was diagnosed at Stage 1 as in my professional life, I worked the for NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, so I knew the signs and had the confidence to challenge my GP for further diagnostics early.
I had major surgery, radiotherapy but luckily no chemotherapy so I was soon able to get back to my ‘normal’ life – but was I?
Things were difficult, I could not just go back to healthy eating and levels of activity. My bowels although ‘put back together’ after a temporary colostomy my body had changed.
I was physically fit and a healthy weight before I got cancer but after cancer it was more of a challenge to be both. I did not let this stop me and after a move to my forever home in Lytham I discovered the Transform Hub Fylde with the most amazing coaching team and members. I started on my goal of becoming physically fit and a healthy weight again, which was not as easy as it had been before. I have become stronger both mentally and physically but not achieved my healthy weight just yet ☹ - I will get there. We are lucky at the Hub to have a lead coach who is a Hyrox Champion, if you have not heard of Hyrox – where have you been? Hyrox is one the fastest growing global fitness competition which combines running and functional workout stations which really is for everyone. It ranges from extremely fit athletes to people in their 70’s. So, when one by one my Hub friends started to take part in Hyrox, I was intrigued. Now running is not my strength (or burpees!) but the rest I was mastering and after being a spectator one day in Manchester cheering on my Hub buddies I though yes, I can do this.
I bought my first Hyrox event ticket twelve months before the event in Malaga, one to give myself the time to train and two because I am a lover of all things Spanish and have never been to Malaga. And on the 23rd March the day is here. I do not feel ready, but I wasn’t ready for cancer and that turned out ok 😊
On the 14th December 2014 if you said that one day I would be taking part in a sporting event alongside 20-year old’s I would have laughed, but here I am doing it and loving it 
Cancer is not always the end it can be the beginning 😊

I was first diagnosed with rectal cancer on 1st June 2010 at the age of 61 after a poo test indicated a problem. Surgery was in the October. It went wrong and I was in hospital for longer than planned. I pulled through and made it to all clear until 2021 when I developed a small tumour in my conjunctiva around an eye. For good measure a very small tumour was also found in my bladder after a scan in 2022. I’ve ended up minus the eye and clear so far in all the affected bits. I have routine follow ups for eye and bladder. The bowel check is routine poo test.

I have found an inner strength I didn’t know I had that has helped me cope. This comes from love and support from family, friends, medical staff, other patients, a hospital chaplain and whoever. Being open and honest about the illness and expressing how you feel. Finding acceptance that I have got cancer has been very important. It takes a bit of work to find the key to that.

For me, keeping going is helped by looking after your physical and mental health. Enjoying life to the best you can. Having interests. Take a break from taking it all too seriously if and when you can. A sense of humour. Getting the most out of each day. Listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right speak to a medic.

I had been having symptoms for quite a few months before being diagnosed with a large tumour in my lower bowel in August 2012, aged 25. Very luckily, although it was large, it hadn’t spread. I had emergency fertility treatment to harvest eggs, months of chemo-radiotherapy, followed by surgery and then more chemo. It took nearly two years, but eventually the medical team told me I just needed yearly surveillance. It was a terrifying and lonely time, despite support from family. It’s taken me over 10 years to truly process what happened to me.

Your friends and family will suffer alongside you, and may need even more support than you at times. Take control of what you can, but try to accept that much of it will be beyond your control. Make time to enjoy the small things and concentrate on getting through each day. Just know that, although it doesn’t feel like it, there will be a morning in your future when your diagnosis isn’t the first thing you think about when you wake up. A friend and fellow survivor told me that early on, and believe me, it is true. Just hold on.

Early onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is a growing phenomenon among people under 50, particularly those in their 20s and 30s. Don’t believe it can’t happen just because you are young. And, if you are young and suffering, you aren’t alone, I promise. Reach out to support groups.

If you can, please give generously to support research and services helping patients.

The symptoms I experienced were bleeding, passing mucus and other changes to my loo habits. There was also a heaviness in my tummy. I didn’t loose any weight or have any other signs. Don’t ignore any symptoms - get advice. It might save your life.

I lost my mom through colon cancer two years ago and life has never been the same. Her only symptom was a change in her bowels (ribbon-like stools). She fought bravely for six months and we miss her every single day. 🤍

I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer following a routine screening test. I had not had any signs or symptoms so I had no idea that I had cancer. I was lucky that detecting it so early meant that it hadn’t spread out of the colon and I did not need chemotherapy. However I also had diverticulosis which meant that joining the colon together after surgery was difficult. So I had a stoma for about 8 months to allow the bowel to heal and then I had a successful reversal. Living with the stoma was no problem at all to me as I was organised and had lots of support from the stoma nurses. I was also checked for Lynch Syndrome which is a genetic condition that increases the risk of bowel cancer. Luckily the results were negative but if they had been positive it would have meant that myself and family members would have been monitored regularly to detect any bowel cancer early. So now over 3 years on I consider myself to be lucky to be alive and well all due to the screening test.

My wife, Janet, died in Oct 21, from a ruptured tumour on her sigmoid colon. She knew she was unwell but wrote it off as a "wee touch of IBS", never went to see a doctor or do her "poo sample". Even in her final week when she was clearly in serious pain, she said it would pass and she'd be ok The post mortem revealed that the cancer had spread to her lungs and liver.
She left behind 2 sons, fine young men, and there's so much of their lives that she never got to see.
The moral of her story is, please learn about the symptoms, do your poo test if you are aged to get one and if you have symptoms, don't write it off, get it checked out. You know it makes sense.

Hi my name is Julie, I was diagnosed April 2024 with stage 4 bowl cancer aged 53. I had no idea that I had cancer until I was sent to A&:E by my doctor because my urine levels were all over the place. I had been suffering with flu like symptoms for a couple of weeks, well it wasn't flu it was Sepsis, I was rushed to intensive care and they operated on me straight away, doctors had informed my family that I may not make it through the operation as the sepsis was attacking my body. Thanks to the NHS I did make it, I was given a storma which without that I would not be here. Whilst having the operation they found that I had a tumor which had come through my utris leaving a big hole in my bowl I am currently having chemo every 2 weeks to try and contain it, but I have been told it's terminal. I had no signs prior to the operation ,so if you get the chance to do the tests DO IT. I kept fit and watched my diet. My job kept me fit I was walking around 33000 steps a day. The crazy thing was 2 Days prior to the operation I sky dived 15000 feet for charity. I am hoping for a miracle and trying to stay positive. Good luck to all in the same boat as me. The photo is myself andy daughter.

I had the feeling that something wasn't right for a couple of months before blood started appearing in my poo. By that stage I was fairly certain there was something wrong and a colonoscopy showed it.

In a way the diagnosis was a relief as it confirmed what I'd been feeling for a while. An operation to remove the tumour followed, along with a year with a stoma bag and six months of chemo in tablet form. I'm now 3 years out and 'under surveillance' as I call it with scans every 6 months.

Looking back I'm grateful I recognised things weren't right and sought help as soon as I could. I also now know having gone through it I'm a lot tougher than I thought I was. During my treatment I was told I'd never be the same person again but I could emerge a better one and thats now how I live my life.

If you're worried do something about it Cancer is nowhere near as scary as it was if you catch it early.

Hi, I'm Matt and in May 2021 I was diagnosed with colon cancer. In July 2021 I had the tumour removed and I ended up with a Stoma. Whilst initially I was overwhelmed and disappointed to have woken up with it, through the support of the Stoma nurses I soon took it in my stride and saw it for what it was. A life saving necessity and I came to really appreciate it. I was lucky in that it was reversible bit it didn't stop me doing anything. You just adapt. In Oct 2024 I completed Ironman Barcelona with the support of Bowel Cancer UK and was proud to run in the vest and raise money for the charity. I am currently cancer free and long may that be the case. Carpe diem.

I was a slim and active 46 year old mother of three, managing a small business back in 1997. I’d been suffering with loose bowel motions for months but my GP thought it was IBS especially after the poo sample test results were negative. However my weight started dropping and after a minor operation was cancelled by the hospital due to my low Haemoglobin level my GP arranged for a referral to the Gastroenterology Department, who ordered a specialist blood test. This again showed no markers present but the Gastroenterologist ordered a Colonoscopy. This showed a Tumour, which was a terrible shock and I was frightened that I would die. Two weeks later I was operated on and informed that of the cancer being at stage two. After being discharged from hospital I had to be readmitted due to infection, which necessitated the surgeon investigating the bowel area and me being put on antibiotics and being tube fed for a number of days. Again I got over the second procedure and was told that I didn’t need Chemotherapy. I am 74 tomorrow and often think how lucky I am to be alive. Since my illness I have lost a cousin at just 42 and my only brother who died at 54 from the same cancer. There is far more awareness of colon and bowel cancer nowadays and the tests available are more sensitive. I have generally been in good health over the years but I do become very anxious about changes in my bowel movements that last more than two or three weeks at a time. I have had quite a number of colonoscopies, which are not pleasant but they are still what is utilised for a full investigation of the bowel.

Me and my beautiful mum who I lost 3 years ago aged 52 to stage 4 bowel cancer. ❤️

I was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2022. I went to the Doctor's because I had been losing weight ( about 2 stone) Input the weight loss down to lots of waking my newish dog I had a niggling pain in my tummy but I only felt the pain if I sat with my arms crossed resting on my stomach. I could not feel any lumps, I had no blood in my poo. I had two tests done for blood in poo, both came back negative.
I saw the consultant who told me I did not have cancer but decided to to send me for a scan to see what could be causing the pain in my stomach. The scan showed that I had bowel cancer which was removed and fortunately for me the cancer was caught at stage 2 with no spread. I did not need chemo therapy. I feel that I have been very lucky.
Since then I have been genetically tested and found to have Lynch's Syndrome which means I have a broken repair gene that gives me a higher risk of a number of cancers. I'm glad that I found this out because I will now have regular testing for bowel cancer.
I hope that my writing this will help some of you reading this. Please always get yourself checked if you have any symptoms.

I was feeling a bit under the weather, my wife was poorly too. I went to the doctors but was sent away with “you’ll have the same virus as your wife’. Two weeks later I was back seeing another doctor having passed out whilst driving my car. She asked lots of questions and took blood and told me not to worry but she was going to refer me to rule out any form of cancer. Unfortunately I was going to have to wait as I didn’t meet the criteria so I went private through my work and very quickly I as on the operating table having a resection after being diagnosed with Stage 2B neuroendocrine cancer. Four years later and I get my last scan this year before being set free again. I’m still clear but have malabsorption, so injections and supplements in abundance. I’m different, but alive.

I was diagnosed with stage 1 neuroendocrine bowel cancer in October 2024, I call myself lucky. Having always had issues with my pelvic region and bowels due to endometriosis I had been checked 10 years prior and had a clear fit test previously and dismissed the small amount of blood this time as endometriosis.
My husband was away one weekend and seeing more I ordered a fit test online and followed up with a GP NHS one, I do not recommend online pharmacies please go straight to your GP! The GP one came back positive., the tumour was almost missed in the colonoscopy as it was small and didn’t look suspicious so I was removed from the cancer pathway. Six weeks later I found out it was cancerous and a further sigmoidoscopy found another similar legion. Surgery removed it entirely and I am very grateful to have had it caught at an early stage.
Don’t be embarrassed, don’t delay if you spot anything!
Whilst I’ll always be anxious about the reoccurrence as I’m ‘young’ I won’t hesitate to get checked again.

I was diagnosed in 2022 it wasn't smooth sailing, I had been in pain for 10 years but over the years I had seen/spoke with many doctors who never actually investigating properly and put my pain down to mental health, food intolerances etc. Told me it wouldnt be anything else as i wasnt old enough (42yrs old at time), eventually you start believing it and stop trying to seek answers thinking your wasting peoples time. The pain just became the norm. It wasn't until 2022 when I kept collapsing curled in fetal position gor hours that my boss insisted I seeked advice.
I contacted the doctors and was seen by a newly trained doctor, who actually took my issues serious, I was very quickly sent for bloods and a scope was booked.
The day I went for scope the consultant looked at me and told me he wasn't sure why I had been sent as my blood work wasn't high enough to be of concern, I explained my situation and was told it'll probably be just irritable bowels. Through the scope I watched the examination and saw the doctors face change when he encountered an 8cm mass in my bowels, and commented well I'm guessing that's not supposed to be there then.
I was sent to recovery and was asked to call my family in which I refused as I wanted to keep partner calm for long drive home. So he informed me that he was 100% sure it was cancer and I will definitely be needing surgery. Lots of pain meds where given and in fairness once diagnosed in december 2022 my surgery was reasonably quick end of January 2023.
I had a right hemicolectomy and resection the the surgeons where wonderful. I was a little awkward as died through surgery but they managed to bring me back to fight another day.
Once surgery was completed I had to wait for investigation on whether chemo was required, it was and I had 8 cycles of capox, again my body decided to be awkward and I had to stop the infusion side of chemo as my veins gave in, but completed the last 2 cycles through tablets instead.

Yes all this sounds traumatic but I had to stay strong and positive through the whole thing to hold together for family.

I now advocate alot to not back down, you know your body , and you no what's right and wrong, don't let people fob you off and always ask for that second/third and forth opinion. I almost wasn't here to see my kids or grandkids grow up. Because I literally didn't listen to my gut.

Cancer uk site helped me alot, and information was readily available, with many sharing their experiences. This was my go to site when I couldn't get answer from my professionals.

Please understand not everyone will have the experience I had but there is always a positive from a negative.

August 2023 my brother Gary and myself were both sent for bowel screening (unaware of each others situation) a week later I had the news that my test was negative . To my shock and great sadness my brother was told he had stage 4.
Being the great fighter he was he just got on with his treatment without a word of complaint.
Sadly I lost my little brother in May2024.
I am having symptoms again and awaiting a colonoscopy in the next week.
If it is not good news I hope I can face as well as my brother did (although I doubt it)
I urge everyone out there with the slightest concerns go get checked out . An early diagnosis could save your life.
RIP Gary always in my thoughts x

14th June 2025 will be the 20 year anniversary of the day I was diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer at the age of 22. I'd had 6 months of symptoms prior to this, and a bit of a battle with my GP to diagnose me with anything other than IBS. 5 operations, removal of my whole colon and 6 months of chemo later... I feel extremely lucky to still be here to tell my story and hopefully give others hope that it can be beaten. There was no genetic explanation for my cancer, and my symptoms were not what you'd call 'typical'. To this day I still find myself explaining what happened to any medical professionals I cross paths with, bowel cancer awareness is so important but especially bowel cancer in young people as there is still a misconception that it doesn't happen to younger people.

It’s now 7 years on since my diagnosis and treatment for bowel cancer. My journey began with a routine birthday health check with my doctor. It turned out that I was anaemic and thankfully I was referred for a CT scan. They found 3 tumours (one stage 2 and 2 stage 3). Surgery to remove 75% of my bowel was carried out within 3 months of my diagnosis and I’m still here to tell you about it. Had it not been for my GP and an amazing consultant I probably wouldn’t be around now. I had no symptoms at all and the only thing I’d like to add is, please have an annual check up with your doctor and if you’re experiencing any issues, talk with them.

I still feel so very lucky to be able to say “thank goodness for the NHS”. Without it, my story would have a completely different ending.

I was referred for an endoscopy following a routine screening test. From first diagnosis of bowel cancer to surgery and then being told I was cancer-free was done in only 10 weeks. After 5 years of follow-up monitoring, I was discharged fully from hospital and I’m now 6 years cancer-free. The screening programme enabled very early diagnosis, relatively simple treatment, and literally saved my life. I strongly urge everyone who is sent one of the test kits to use and return it, so survival rates can continue to improve.

Hello my name is Adrian , I will keep it short as it was a long journey. It was confirmed in October 2019 that I had rectal cancer after no symptoms whatsoever as you can imagine I was shattered, but they to it out and nearly all of my sigmoid oid colon. I was home after a couple of days with loop ileostomy, things were fine I was out on my bike not long after coming out of hospital doing 150 mls a week I am a firm believer in exercise. Then covid hit so my reversal was cancelled for 18 months , when I finally had it done I was prepared for what the doctors told me that I would have to learn to poo again.This is when the problems started I slept by the toilet for two weeks and was pooing 40 times a day I was so depressed especially as I wanted to keep my stoma but had complications with it. But eventually your body learns it is remarkable I am now down to about eight times a day which sounds alot but I am so pleased. I carry a card which explains my problem so when I am out I can show it I have not been refused yet. I also have a app of all the toilets in the UK. I am so pleased with life now I only want my health money is the last thing on my mind and I am not rich by any means So just believe in yourself you will get better and remember exercise cancer doesn't like that.

I am 10 years post treatment now after having no real symptoms other than GP diagnosed IBS that seemed to go away after some tablets. I then developed severe stomach pains when the tumour blocked my bowel and had emergency surgery to remove it, colostomy added and 6 months adjuvant chemotherapy for a stage 2 ‘bad’ tumour. 12 months after completion of the chemotherapy I had a colostomy reversal and still here to tell the tale! surgery and treatment take their toll so make the most of macmillan nurses, treatment nurses and any counselling offered. I had 5 years follow-up surveillance and still have a colonoscopy every 5 years as polys are still being removed.

I was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer. I had very little symptoms. Just pains in my left side abdomen. Persevered with GP/111 and finally saw a GP. Had surgery. It had spread to lymph nodes outside of bowel so had to have my ovary removed. Chemotherapy followed. Three years later, I’m still cancer free. And living life to the full as best I can. Be vigilant and persevere with anything that is not normal for your body. We can beat bowel cancer if it is caught in time. I cherish ever day. ❤️

I was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in October 2018 aged 56. I had been to see my GP several times the previous year because of a change in bowel habit, when I mentioned I thought I may have bowel cancer I was dismissed as being too young. Eventually I was given the FIT test which showed inflammation, this led to colonoscopy where I was told immediately they'd found a tumour. I had the op to remove the tumour and lived with an iliostomy for 1 year. 7 years on I'm living an active and happy life. My lovely team keep an eye on my CEA level which runs high.

I was diagnosed in 2005, the ONLY symptom was bloating about 30 mins after eating. Had a diligent GP (was living in N London at the time) had a flexible tube with camra in rectum found polyps, so had colonoscopy. Had third of bowel removed (ascending colon) followed by chemotherapy. I have a fairly normal life with no real ill effects. 2020 diagnosed with mouth/neck cancer - surgery, chemo & radiotherapy - again early diagnosed, other than dry mouth no real problems. 2024 diagnosed with basal cell skin cancer, which I had removed under local anaesthetic - again no ongoing problems. Early diagnosis and being positive are key, cancer its just a label we need to destigmatise it. Nearly 70 year old, still working and run up to 10K.

I was diagnosed with Stage 2 colorectal cancer in November 2024
Being 43 at the time, in retrospect I’d been suffering cancer symptoms which went undiagnosed for around 2 years.
My first main symptom was pressure pain, under the ribcage, and all the round the abdomen which would wake me in the night and early morning.
Change in bowel habit was so gradual I hadn’t even considered it as a problem until I mentioned to the doctor I was needing to empty my bowels a minimum of 4/5 times every day.
That frequency increased so much that it was hard to even leave the house as I would be constantly in and out the bathroom.
As my cancer progressed I had a whole list of symptoms but, the one that started the process of diagnosis was when I mentioned to the GP that actually I was having a fair bit of blood in my poo every day.
Even at that point I was reassured it could be piles or a polyp.
(My instincts told me otherwise)
My 5cm sigmoid tumour (T3 which meant it had grown through the bowel to the muscular layer) was picked up by colonoscopy at the start of November and it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster ride since then but, the sense of relief at being diagnosed felt like a huge step.
Telling my children was the hardest, most heartbreaking thing I’ve ever had to do. But, we’ve worked through things and stayed positive throughout. I’m also grateful to CLAN Aberdeen for their help in supporting them too.
I’m still in the post surgery recovery period but, having lots of good days and my surgery wounds have healed very well.
As is always said, trust your body and don’t put off going to the GP for fear of not wanting to ‘make a fuss’ x

We lost my lovely Dad, Gary, to Bowel Cancer in December 2021. He was the greatest father a girl could have. He was kind, funny, clever and would do anything for you. He fought a year’s battle with such bravery and commitment to his family until the end. He did everything he could to stay with us. He is much loved, missed and remembered by myself, Mum and Sister. I try to raise awareness of this disease in his memory so no one else can experience the great loss that we have.

It was during lockdown at the end of 2020 that I first noticed blood in the toilet when I had a poo. I dismissed it at first as I was pretty sure I had piles (which is a pretty common avoidance tactic for bowel cancer). However the bleeding didn’t get any less and as I had lost my own Dad to Bowel cancer in 2001 and I had told him off for not going to the doctor, I thought I had better get myself checked and follow my own advice. Luckily following a phone appointment my GP decided I should be seen the next day. When she examined me she said ‘well you haven’t got piles but I think I can feel something’. She referred me on the 2 week pathway and I had a CT scan followed by a colonoscopy. The colonoscopy was extra frightening as the doctor carrying it out was dressed in a sealed suit like a space suit with its own air supply. He hadn’t long started when the room went quiet and the screen showed an obvious tumour in my rectum. They took loads of biopsies of it and then removed a polyp next to it and placed a tattoo where the polyp had been. The doctor then came round to face me and told me that he was really sorry but I had cancer. I immediately thought of my Dad and I thought my life was over.

The biopsies and polyp were tested and the decision was made to treat me with 5 weeks of daily radiotherapy and low dose chemotherapy. I started this in April 2021 and again I was incredibly lucky that my local hospital were one of the few that were treating patients during lockdown so I didn’t have to travel far. The chemo made me incredibly sick but I was given medication to help. 8 weeks after the treatment ended I had a scan and it was with a great deal of trepidation that I went to the appointment to find out what would happen next. The surgeon smiled and told me the tumour had gone completely. I didn’t need surgery and they would put me on surveillance. Again I had been very lucky.

Two years of surveillance followed with an MRI scan and sigmoidoscopy every 4 months. Each time I was convinced it would be back. In February 2023 a tiny ulcer appeared and that was it - my luck had run out and the tumour was back in the same place. I was told I would need surgery and I could choose between a biopsy excision or a much larger surgery that would be sure to remove everything but I would be left with a permanent stoma. After a lot of thought I chose the larger operation and I had that in May 2023. Testing showed everything was removed and I was now disease free. I am currently 2 years into a 3 year surveillance plan.

I was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer in October 2023, at the age of 55, with no symptoms at all. An NHS health check (blood test) picked up that I was anaemic and my amazing GP decided to send me for further tests. Many would have simply put me on iron tablets, but he had a hunch that it was something more. He was right - a positive FIT test, showed I had a lot of blood in my stool (given the location of the tumour, there was no evidence of blood in my stool on passing), and a colonoscopy revealed I had a tumour in my right ascending bowel. A CT scan revealed that it had broken through the bowel wall, and infected a number of local nodes.

To say I was shocked was an understatement. I was fit, healthy, active, not overweight, limited alcohol intake and a good diet. It was, and remains a mystery.

I have now had surgery, to remove the right hand section of my bowel, without the need for a stoma (phew), and then I embarked on a course of adjuvant chemotherapy of that beautiful mix of Oxaliplatin and Capecitabine. There have been a few bumps in the road - I quickly learnt that I was very sensitive to the chemo, with an extreme reaction to the cold, strong neuropathy symptoms and palmar plantar - but with the support of wonderful family and friends, and MacMillan Nurse team, I found my way through.

6 months later, I have received the all clear (for now). Others say it has been so quick - it did not feel that way. I am delighted to have come through this, and to be able to plan. I feel blessed that I can enjoy the time ahead of me. I am thankful for each day.

I realise that this story will be very different for others, and I am in ore of the strength and resolve shown by those whose path may be a different one.

I was diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome in 2020 following a strong family history of bowel cancer and genetic testing.

I had regular colonoscopies and was very aware of the symptoms that I needed to look for.

In late 2022 I noticed very subtle changes to my poo and contacted my GP to ask for a FIT. The results came back borderline and at first the hospital did not want to do any further tests. However, I had a very strong feeling that something was wrong, and I pushed for a colonoscopy ahead of my scheduled screening scope.

It was a good move, as it showed a small polyp that was adenoma. 6 weeks later I had an extended right hemicolectomy. It was.stage 1 and I did not need any chemo or radiotherapy.

2 years on I am still cancer free and so glad that I listened to my body and persevered in getting the right investigations.

I was diagnosed with bowel cancer in April 2006, it was only by chance late in the evening that i had noticed a blood clot and went straight to the evening doctors and was told to see my doctor on the monday this was a weekend. was seen about fort nite later and went for my test and was then told I had bowel cancer. I had my operation on the 18th April 2006.

Advocating for yourself whether you are going through Bowel Cancer or a family member supporting a loved one, is extremely important throughout your own personal journey. My mum did this through her journey, and I continue to walk forward in life with that courage she had.
I have started the process to look more into cancer genetic testing to ensure my future and understanding.

I had blood coming from my backside and put it down to piles.
My partner made me go and get it checked out.
The doctor examined me and when i said i thought it was piles she asked when this was diagnosed . Never i replied. So why are you self diagnosing she asked. Never ever self diagnose she said.
I was sent for a colonoscopy and the cancer was found straight away.
I had to wait a little while to have it confirmed but they told me immediately that i was now a cancer patient.
I had the tuma removed several weeks later and was fitted with a colostomy bag.
I then had a course of chemotherapy as the cancer had spread to my lymph nodes.
It is now coming up to 10 years since the diagnosis and i am now living a perfectly normal and fulfilling life.
Yes its tough but get yourself checked and with a strong mental attitude and the help of the truly amazing NHS staff there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
If my wife had not made me go i would probably not be here today.
i had the colostomy reversed as well.
Ive seen my grandkids growing up.
And i still run and play football.

Just after my 60th birthday, nhs wales sent me a bowel cancer stool testing kit. I had no symptoms, but was nagged to do the test. Within 2 weeks of the test i was called to royal glam hospital for a colonoscopy. A tumour and polups were found. I couldnt believe it. As this was during lockdown i was there on my own. Sent home with a leaflet to await the results. It was confirmed and i was operated on. After an 8 hour op, i came around to find i now had a permanent stoma/bag. I put on a positive atertude and after more tests found i had lynch syndrome. The nhs has looked after me with yearly bloods,scans colonoscopies and im. Im still here. So please if your asked to take any test DO IT, it could save your life

Jordan started getting stomach pains a few years before she was diagnosed in 2018, age 28 with Bowel Cancer. She had been to the Doctors a few times about this and was told it was IBS but she was never sent for any tests. As Jordan was so young and cancer didn’t run in the family we just took what the Doctors said as being correct. When she was eventually diagnosed she was stage 4 and it was in her liver and lungs, she was able to have chemotherapy but unfortunately Jordan died aged 30 in March 2020. If I could advise anyone now it would be to push the doctors more for tests no matter what age you are as we are sure that Jordan would be alive now if we had.

I was diagnosed with stage 3 sigmoid colon cancer in October 22. I had surgery in Nov followed by 3 months of chemotherapy. I was terrified and still have days where I struggle to process the emotional rollercoaster I’ve been on ever since. I visited the GP many times with abdominal pain and just feeling like something was really wrong and I was always told I was too young for bowel cancer and I had IBS. Eventually I developed a mild but persistent ache in my left hand side that wouldn’t disappear and this ultimately was the turning point and after lengthy additional tests it resulted in my diagnosis. The advice I would give anyone in a similar situation is listen to your body and if something doesn’t feel right keep on at your GP. It’s hard to be positive when diagnosed but with time comes acceptance and a new normal which is full of hope. I found lots of positive stories on bowel cancer forums and they were a real help.

Hi everyone, I was very lucky. When you reach a certain age you don’t get the test kit through the post! I hadn’t had one for years so decided to send off for one ! I am one of the lucky ones as my bowel cancer was caught at an early stage, I urge everyone to do the test and if you no longer receive it through the post go on line and order one ! It could save your life! Good luck!

Giving blood can help save lives or in my case not giving blood. After testing my blood the service said it wasn’t possible to take that night. Don’t worry we will send for you soon! Anyway a couple of days later I received a letter that very strongly advised me to see the Doctor. I made an appointment for that day and when I saw the Doctor he said you must go to hospital. A couple of hours later I had a phone call and an appointment the next day. My wife came with me , thank goodness because after numerous internal examinations the Doctor said I had CANCER, Bowel Cancer. We were taken to a tiny room and a Collorectal Nurse explained what would happen, wow, information overload for me, thank goodness my wife was with me! Once my treatment began, five weeks of radiotherapy every day and chemotherapy the first and last week. Obviously there had been many other interventions along the way. I worked and played football all the way through and seven weeks after treatment finished my operation took place. Apparently I was in theatre a long time, I don’t remember anything much but my Surgeon came to see me in recovery and told me I had a temporary colostomy bag, it was a close thing. I learned to live with my friend although there were some terrible times when it dropped off and many times when people told me off for using the access toilet but then backed off when I introduced them to my friend. After eighteen months and many horrible tests I had my reversal. I still have a problem every now and then and struggle to eat healthy fibrous food and fruit but hey it’s better to have a problem than the alternative.
Twenty one years on and I am fit and healthy do many outdoor activities and travel a lot.
Going to give blood saved my life.
My thanks go to all the Doctors and Nurses and other people who helped me through a difficult time, you were awesome!
The biggest thanks go to my Wife, she was with me every step of the way bu most of all she insisted I went to give blood that night.

Hey I’m Katie I’m 37 this is a little bit about it. it was a big shock finding out that I had to stage two cancer in my right bowels always go with your gut feeling if you know something’s not right matter what had a lot of pain in my tummy and change in bowel movements feeling tired all the time in the end went for CT scan and they saw the tumour and it was size of a golf ball because it was pressing on my appendix my appendix burst and had to have a emergencyoperation to remove the right bowel and now I’m recovering and having checks every six months I know some people will be embarrassed to take your poo in or have someone to look there but it’s worth it the early they know it can be treated

Today marks two years clear. I was diagnosed Jan 2022 stage 3 bowel cancer. My symptoms were weight loss and losing blood. By the time my symptoms started I was already stage 3 . I couldn’t believe it I was super fit as I am a personal trainer so I was completely shocked. I had to go through chemo , radiotherapy and surgery to have a section of bowel removed. But I am now two years clear and so grateful for the treatment I recieved . If you’re in any doubt please get checked out.

I almost cancelled my Gp appointment as the reason I’d made the appointment wasn’t as problematic as it had been. Whilst there I was examined and the poo test done, it came back positive and the colonoscopy showed the cause, I had Colon cancer. As a nurse of over 50 years I tried to be pragmatic but it’s not easy and whilst waiting for scans and more tests my mind went into overdrive, a little knowledge can be unhelpful at times. I named my cancer ‘ Donald’.Two lots of surgery and I’m now on a 5 year surveillance plan. I have been lucky so far. Best advice, any symptoms go get checked out.

I’m 37 years of age and was diagnosed with colon cancer in August 2024. For quite sometime I was suffering with blood in my stools and after many of tests at the doctors they referred me for a colonoscopy. Turned out I had a 4cm tumour in the mid section of my rectum.

I had LAR surgery on the 2nd October and also a temporary ileostomy. They removed 15cm of my bowel along with the tumour and as the cancer had spread to 2 of my lymph nodes out of the 22 they took, it was advised for me to have mop up chemo. I can happily I have successfully completed 4 cycles of chemo but found it very tough. So far this journey has been super hard mentally and physically. At the beginning of my diagnosis I set up an instagram page to document my journey but to also use it as a platform to raise awareness which is something I feel passionate about. Colon and bowel cancer is becoming increasingly more apparent in younger people.

On the 12th March I finally got my results from my CT scan and I’m fully in remission and got to ring that bell. I am now being referred back to my surgeon to talk about reversing my stoma.

During this time I have also had IVF to have my eggs frozen incase chemo prompted early menopause.

Although I am now in remission it doesn’t stop there. Cancer has changed my life forever and I’m still coming to terms with what I have been through and what happened to me. It certainly comes with a whole wave of emotions and thoughts of the purpose of life which I’m now trying to figure out.

Bowel cancer was a total surprise, as was my stoma when I came round from 3 days of induced coma following my collapse in A&E! My immediate thoughts were "Woe is poor me!!" and after a quick cry in my beard realised that this ugly thing on my abdomen was in fact, really, my best friend and life saver! So much so, that I have named him after my childhood hero, Sweep, because of all the strange noises he makes (particularly in quiet restaurant scenarios!) I think I can sum up my attitude to cancer as, I've got it, it's not likely to disappear, so deal with it! Resilience, determination, hope, trust in our NHS and above all, have a sense of humour. Find something funny in everything and it doesn't seem to hurt as much. Try it :-)

I'd encourage everyone to not only be persistent in seeking medical advice or attention, but when you do get an appointment, be fully open and honest about your symptoms. This can really help inform the next steps and where required, you being put on the most appropriate care pathway.

Don't be afraid to see your GP as soon as you notice any changes in your body, however small or insignificant they might feel. Early diagnosis is so important because bowel cancer is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early. Talking to your GP about poo and going to the toilet can feel embarrassing, but don’t let that stop you making an appointment, because nearly everyone survives bowel cancer if diagnosed at the earliest stage.

I knew something wasn’t quite right. I'd get occasional abdominal pain, at first barely noticeable but gradually worsening until I took the plunge and saw a doctor. That decision made all the difference and my cancer was caught early and treated effectively. Bowel cancer affects younger people too (I was diagnosed at 39) and recognising the symptoms is crucial. We all have a responsibility to look after our own health, not just for ourselves but for those we love. If something feels off, don’t ignore it - trust yourself, listen to your body and seek medical advice.

I was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer in November 2023 at age 38. Please get any change in your bowel habits checked as I blamed everything but ‘cancer’ it’s better to have an early diagnosis. I had pain in my left side lower abdomen, what felt like constipation loss of appetite, blood in my stool, anxiety and fatigue. Having a colonoscopy wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be, after surgery and chemotherapy I am now over year in remission. Please get yourself checked and ask for a FIT test if you have any concerning symptoms.