was diagnosed with bowel cancer back on 26th November 2023.  My GP sent me for a colonoscopy because I was extremely constipated and she had asked me to do a FIT test which came back with very slight raised blood traces.  

I did not consider cancer at any point.  My consultant who carried out the colonoscopy even said to me, before the procedure,  that he doubted there was anything going on and it was highly probable I was just constipated!  We even had a joke and a laugh about it!  

When he brought me into talk to him after the procedure he looked visibly shocked.  He had gone very pale and he apologised repeatedly.  He then spoke the words which have changed my world.  You have a large cancer in your bowel.  

Bear in mind I was not ill at all! My symptoms were extreme constipation and slight bleeding.  I had put on weight and was struggling to lose weight despite being on a diet.

Everything has moved fast from then.  I have an operation scheduled for January 29th to remove a foot of my bowel.  My CT scan was clear for secondary cancers but they couldn't see all of my bowel so I am worried about that.  I have lost my appetite completely and can go days without food.  I am extremely tired with fatigue.  

I have 3 children, a brilliant husband and supportive family.  I joined this chat to talk to people without guilt or worry.

Thank you