Derek had no symptoms when he sent off his ‘poo stick’.
Over the years he had done his bowel screening regularly and the results had always come clear. This time, however, tiny traces of blood were found, which meant he needed further tests.
Despite this being during the Covid-19 pandemic, Derek had a colonoscopy at the hospital a week later. Within seven weeks, he had had an operation to remove the bowel cancer. It was found so early it meant that he didn’t have to have other more aggressive types of treatment, like chemotherapy.
As a busy 73-year-old, he is grateful that the bowel cancer was found at such a stage where it could just be removed. It means Derek can get on with his very active life, including supporting other veterans at a Breakfast Club and drop in.
He advises everyone to do their bowel screening. He says ‘It saved my life. It could save yours.’
Visit our bowel cancer screening page for more information.
Cancer Care Map
Support can be a lifeline for people affected by cancer. There is a wide range of services available in the Wessex area and further afield.
Cancer Care Map is a simple, free, online resource to help you find cancer support services near you.
To find support groups and services in your local area, click on the Cancer Care Map logo and enter your postcode in the search box. You can enter key words to search for more specific services.
