When I was 11, my mum, Teresa Whitfield, was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer. It was an incredibly hard time for all of us, but what makes her story even more powerful is how it started. She had seen Bowelbabe (Deborah James) bravely sharing her journey online, which made her stop and think about her own symptoms. That moment of awareness pushed her to seek further advice — and it turned out to be life-saving. Without the work of Bowel Cancer UK and inspiring voices like Bowelbabe, my mum may not have caught it in time.

After a successful surgery and six tough months of chemotherapy, mum emerged stronger than ever. She beat the odds—her tumour removed, her lymph nodes cleared—and today she stands as a testament to what early diagnosis, unwavering determination, and excellent care can achieve .

Because of her journey, bowel cancer has always been deeply personal to me. I know firsthand the fear, uncertainty, and relief that come with a diagnosis—and I’ve seen how life‑saving early detection can be. That’s why I’m raising money for Bowel Cancer UK: to help fund vital research, support more people like my mum, and spread awareness of symptoms so that fewer lives are caught too late.

By donating, you’re helping to ensure more stories end like my mum’s—with hope, recovery, and a bright future. Thank you for being part of this journey and helping me give back to a cause forever close to my heart.