Colleen’s story

I had been having a few symptoms and went to my GP – she said that it was just all, an aging thing. I took her word and ignored my symptoms for another two years!

I had to go to a gynaecologist, and during the course of the appointment, my gyno asked me how I had been feeling generally. I told her about some of my symptoms, and how I was just so tired, that at any moment through the day, I could lay down and sleep.

She told me this was unusual and that I should not be getting these sorts of symptoms, as I was post-menopause. She told me that she would like me to go back to my GP, for more tests and that she would call my GP to have a chat with her.

My GP called and asked me to come in to see her the following day. She ordered some tests and told me to do the bowel cancer screening test (that had been sitting in my bathroom drawer for a few months!).

The test came back positive. I was in compete denial, and thought the colonoscopy being arranged was a complete waste of time.

Immediately after the colonoscopy, my gastroenterologist showed me some pictures of what he had found and that he had sent a biopsy for further investigation.

I was told 24 hours later that I had bowel cancer and would need immediate surgery. I had a right hemicolectomy and am now in my first year of surveillance.

Looking back, the whole time was a blur, and I still think I was in denial. I owe my life to my gyno!!

My one piece of advice:

If you have symptoms insist that they be investigated further. Get a second opinion and don’t doubt yourself. Do your bowel cancer screener when you receive it!