Hello all.

In 2016 a very close and dear friend (adopted granddad) of mine was diagnosed with bowel cancer. In December of 2016 he underwent life saving surgery which resulted in him having a permanent stoma. After undergoing a gruelling course of chemotherapy we are pleased to announce that Fred has now been given the thumbs up. His stoma has had a huge impact on his life both physically and mentally.

I have witnessed first hand the effect it has on an individual when a stoma bag goes wrong. I cant begin to comprehend how the individual must feel when it does but I have seen the physical damage and embarrassment. The feeling of being alone and isolated is extremely common in people with a Stoma, even a simple trip to the shop can be daunting.

We take so much for granted in our everyday lives and its not until someone is struck with a life changing illness that we realise just how luck we are. You never know if you or a loved one may be struck down with bowel cancer.

I'm going to be taking part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge on the 27th April 2018 to raise much needed funds for our local Stoma unit at Grimsby Hospital.

Since my dear friend was diagnosed with bowel cancer I'm amazed at how many people I speak to who also have a stoma bag, its a very personal thing and not something people tend the throw into conversation when you meet them.

I'm hoping to raise more awareness of Stoma and generate much needed funds for the unit at Diana Princess of Wales Hospital.

Please donate what you can, pennies make pounds and pounds save lives.

many thanks for supporting a cause so close to my heart

Donna xx