<p>On my 52nd birthday the family got together for a birthday lunch. My sisters partner, Colin had just been diagnosed with bowel cancer so it was not a very cheery celebration.</p> <p>When I got home my bowel screening kit was in the mail. Having heard all about Colin I completed my screening kit promptly and posted it off. Within a short time I was also diagnosed with bowel cancer. I felt so grateful that I had been diagnosed prior to being aware of a problem and when I learned how around 50% of people do not take up the bowel screening I decided to spread the word as much as possible. I'm now a volunteer with Bowel Cancer UK and yesterday gave my first awareness talk.</p> <p>I have heard many reasons why people don't complete their screening kits but have never heard a good reason. Feeling fine, not having any symptoms, having had previous clear screenings are all irrelevant.</p> <p>Symptoms of bowel cancer are, blood when you go to the loo, change in bowel habits for 3 weeks or more, weight loss, tiredness for no apparent reason, pain in abdomen. People may have all, some or no symptoms. Please spread the word and if you have any concerns see your GP and take up screening when invited.</p> <p>Sorry for the lecture but I'm sure that someone reading this will benefit.</p>