SPEAK UP AND SAVE LIVES
Spotting the signs of bowel cancer early can literally be life changing. Every 15 minutes, someone is diagnosed and it’s the second biggest cancer killer – yet it’s treatable and curable, especially with early diagnosis.
Bowel Cancer UK is looking for volunteers who have been affected by bowel cancer to give short talks in their local area to raise awareness and to inform people about the vital screening programme.
Retired teacher Rae Cameron, 62, was diagnosed with bowel cancer that was picked up by the screening programme.
Rae now volunteers with Bowel Cancer UK to encourage people aged 50-74 to attend the life-saving test. ‘I consider myself so lucky and I’ll be forever grateful,’ Rae says. ‘I had no symptoms whatsoever when I completed the test. In fact, when I had to repeat the test, I couldn’t really be bothered. I went for peace of mind. I was devastated when the second test was positive and I had to go for a colonoscopy. During the procedure, the consultant removed a polyp, which had grown into the bowel wall. Tests revealed it was cancerous. I was stunned, I had just retired and was enjoying my new found freedom and travel. I could only imagine the worst. I underwent surgery to remove 21cm of my colon. Thanks to my incredible medical team I did not require a stoma and was only in hospital for three days. The treatment I underwent was considered curative and no chemotherapy was necessary. I was so lucky the cancer was picked up early as it could have been years before symptoms developed, and by that time the outcome would not be so favourable! I can now continue to enjoy my retirement.
I chose to volunteer with Bowel Cancer UK because I want to help spread the word about bowel screening since I benefitted so much.’