Why I’m Taking Part in Courage on the Catwalk…!

In 2023, I noticed a small amount of blood in my stool. I told myself it was nothing, just the after-effects of a difficult labour with my first daughter but my instinct told me to get checked. That decision saved my life.

A colonoscopy revealed several polyps. One caused concern. Although it was described as benign, it needed to be removed. Surgery was planned but the day before, I found out I was pregnant. Everything was paused.

Months later, with a new baby in my arms, I returned for further tests. This time, I was told they had found cancer cells. I was diagnosed with stage 2 rectal cancer.

I remember feeling utter shock, my mum beside me, as my fiancé Phylip was offshore …both of us in complete shock. I honestly believed this couldn’t happen to me, not now, not after just having a baby.

Treatment was relentless. Radiotherapy recovery left me in unbearable pain. Chemotherapy made me desperately ill — exhausted, frightened, and feeling poisoned. It was the hardest time of my life. What carried me through were extraordinary NHS staff, unwavering support from my family, and moments of kindness that made the unbearable survivable.

Against the odds, I was given the all clear just before Christmas 2024.

But this wasn't the end of the story….

In 2025, during routine surveillance, high-risk abnormal cells were found. I underwent life-changing surgery. My rectum and anus were removed, reconstructive plastic surgery was carried out, and I now live with a permanent stoma. Recovery was slow, painful, and humbling.

On New Year’s Eve, I received the call that changed everything… I was cancer-free!

No further treatment needed.

I’ve walked this path while raising young children, with a partner working away much of the time. I’ve learned that support isn’t optional, it’s essential. I couldn’t have don’t it with my amazing parents and of course, Phylip, friends and family. Feeling seen, understood, and cared for during the darkest moments can change everything.

That’s why I’m fundraising for Friends of Anchor.

Friends of Anchor brings comfort, dignity, and human connection to people facing cancer, and to the families walking alongside them. They remind people they are not alone when life feels frightening and uncertain. The cheery faces of the volunteers, brightened my day. The lovely care packs after having treatment was a thoughtful touch and having reflexology whilst have chemo was what I looked forward to.

If my story moves you to donate, please know that your support will help others through the hardest moments of their lives. And if it encourages even one person to get checked sooner, then sharing it has been worth it.

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