Yes! JoMo has finally got her MoJo back - albeit a slightly fatigued one (but I have discovered that recovery after Bowel Cancer can be a long journey).  This time last year, I didn't quite feel ready or able to do this challenge, however 2 years on I do.

Diagnosis day will always be the day that I remember for obvious reasons, but also because it turned my family and my world topsy turvy until we found our feet again to encompass the logistics of surgery, chemotherapy, regular nurse care and the unexpected long recovery from treatment.

"You had bowel cancer... you're so young!" Is the statement I often get, along with "What were your symptoms?".  It's great that I look so young (thanks mum and dad for the  'young' gene), and I like that people are able to talk openly about symptoms, after all, it could save someone's life.  Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, 1 in 15 men and 1 in 18 women will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime.  My symptoms were few, severe tiredness (which now in hindsight, was not tiredness, but fatigue due to a lot of blood loss) - there is a difference, weight loss and a constant gurgling stomach (although this was a late symptom).  In the end, severe stomach cramps a bit like IBS (that wouldn't go away) is what finally took me off to A&E.  By this time, it was stage 4.  I should have listened to my body a lot earlier.  

https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/

Here you can find a helpful symptoms diary of which will help with discussions with your GP.

Why have I chosen to raise money for Macmillan Cancer?  Let me tell you what Macmillan Cancer Support have done for me and my family...

In our hazy state of mind after diagnosis, my husband and I were directed to a dedicated Macmillan centre within the hospital where an incredibly sympathetic and knowledgable Macmillan lady approached us with a cup of tea, listening ear and appropriate literature to help us understand in more detail how I could help myself recovery quicker from surgery and how to keep myself well throughout treatment.  For me, Macmillan are like an extension of the NHS - they have expert knowledge in all types of cancer and specialise in the wellbeing of cancer patients and their family.  Needless to say, as a family we tapped into this service frequently.  As recovery continues (neuropathy and fatigue), we continue to do so.  I consider myself lucky to have supportive family nearby for childcare, and a husband with a flexible job, however I did often think what I would have done if I were self employed, without childcare or having to quit my job because of illness- many people do just have to cope.  Macmillan are a support organisation who can help with these realities. 

Macmillan has helped to enable me to take up this challenge physically and emotionally, and to raise vital funds to keep these services going for everyone.  The scary reality is that 1 in 2 of us will be diagnosed with some sort of cancer some time in their life, and with a stretched NHS, charities such as Macmillan are vitally important.

Thanks for supporting my fundraising. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs.

Best wishes,

Jo