My story begins in 2017, when I first noticed some unusual symptoms and went to my GP. My problem was that I was occasionally experiencing a small leakage from my bottom, nothing major but enough to make me think there was something not quite right. My doctor thought it worthwhile for me to have a colonoscopy, which revealed a large lump near the end of my bowel. Thankfully, the biopsy showed it was benign, but I needed surgery to remove it completely. I still remember watching the surgeon at work with a strange sense of fascination. The operation was successful, and within weeks, my bowel had healed well.
(Colin with partner Amanda before his diagnosis)
Fast forward to 2021, after delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, I began experiencing pain in my stomach after meals. At first, it was put down to dietary issues, but in 2022 a blood test revealed something more serious. Another colonoscopy showed a large, doughnut-shaped tumour high in my bowel. This time, the biopsy confirmed it was cancerous. I was told urgent surgery was needed. The big shock to me was seeing the really ugly tumour during the colonoscopy (I watched the monitor as the camera was pushed up my colon). It was clear to me that this was very unlikely to be benign. However, whilst I was shocked, I didn’t panic and get overly upset. It also really helped to meet and talk to the surgeon who was to perform my operation. Having been incredibly impressed with the precise surgery that had happened before, I knew that I would be in very good hands.
On 10 July 2022, I underwent keyhole surgery at Churchill hospital in Oxford to remove the tumour and a large section of my bowel. Although recovery was tough – including a painful setback with constipation and a nasogastric tube – I gradually healed. Within a few weeks, my bowel was working normally again.
The cancer was staged at 3A, meaning it had spread to a couple of lymph nodes but not beyond. To reduce the risk of recurrence, I started chemotherapy in September 2022. The treatment was personalised to my genetic profile, thanks to the extraordinary work being done at Oxford’s teaching hospitals. Side effects were difficult at times, especially when it began to affect my hearing, but the oncology team quickly adapted my treatment. I completed chemo in early 2023.
Later that year, a follow-up colonoscopy confirmed the operation had been successful. With ongoing scans and blood tests, I was monitored closely until, just recently, I was told no further checks were needed. It felt like a huge milestone – one final colonoscopy next year, and then hopefully this chapter will truly be behind me.
Looking back, I feel both unlucky and incredibly lucky. Unlucky that my diagnosis came during the COVID period, which caused delays. But so lucky to live in Oxfordshire, with access to world-class surgeons, oncologists, and nurses. Their skill, dedication, and kindness have given me the chance to live well again.
Today, I volunteer at Oxford hospitals as my way of saying “thank you.” I know how daunting a cancer diagnosis can be, and I hope by sharing my story I can offer comfort and encouragement to others going through something similar.
(Colin recently after treatment)