Profile: Gerard's bowel cancer story

Gerard from Cork is a bowel cancer survivor. At 42, he went to his doctor after experiencing rectal bleeding and discomfort in his stomach. A colonoscopy revealed a tumour. Fortunately it was caught early enough and treated and today Gerard volunteers with the Irish Cancer Society Survivor Support programme, offering one-on-one support to newly diagnosed bowel cancer patients. This is his story:

"I was diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer at the age of 42. I had been experiencing rectal bleeding and abdominal discomfort, so I went to my GP to get myself checked out. He referred me for a simple procedure called a colonoscopy which examines the inside of the bowel.

"During the colonoscopy, it was found that I had a tumour in my bowel which had progressed into the lymphatic system. I was extremely fortunate that the cancer was found in time. If I had been diagnosed a couple of months later, it would have spread to stage four and been far more difficult to treat. The earlier the cancer is found, the more treatment options that are available to you and the greater the chances of a successful outcome.

"In order to shrink this large tumour, I underwent four weeks of daily radiotherapy, combined with daily chemotherapy during the first and last week. Major surgery followed which left me with a stoma and colostomy bag, both of which were temporary. Weekly chemotherapy for the next six months completed my treatment.

"I have been cancer free ever since and I am so glad that I acted when I experienced symptoms and that my GP referred me for a colonoscopy. After I received the all clear, I did struggle with the emotional effects of the disease. Counselling was a tremendous help at that time, as indeed were meditation and tai chi.

"I now volunteer with the Irish Cancer Society’s Survivor Support programme, offering support and information and above all hope to newly diagnosed bowel cancer patients who have received a similar diagnosis to the one I did over ten years ago. Everyone aged 60 to 69 should avail of the National Bowel Screening Programme, which is free and painless, but anyone of any age concerned about bowel cancer should go to their GP without delay. I would particularly appeal to men never to ignore or dismiss symptoms. Early detection can make a huge difference. It might just save your life - it saved mine!"

Questions or concerns about bowel cancer? Contact our Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700 or through our online form.