I was diagnosed in September 2015 aged 54 following a removal of a mass in the August by having a Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy. I received six treatments of intravenous Chemotherapy following having an allergic reaction to the tablets. I received my last treatment on 9th March 2016. Following six monthly checks of CT & abdominal scans alternatively, I got the best news in April 2019 Cancer free. I am currently on waiting list for a Colonoscopy follow-up. 

When I was diagnosed my initial feelings were shock, anger, why me and scared but I was adamant and positive I was going to fight this. I had to take my last year off work due to the clinical environment I worked in so that hit me hard. Initially I hated relying on others as I was so independent and my role was normally the caring one. But with continual support from family, friends, work colleagues and Friends of Anchor I eventually realised I couldn’t do it on my own. 

Having attended my first Courage on the Catwalk last year I was inspired by the models and their stories. So my family and friends encouraged me to apply. So here I am one of the  Courage on the Catwalk 2023 models. 

With just a year until The ANCHOR Centre opens its doors, fundraising for the ANCHORED Together appeal remains a key area of focus for the charity.With a £2m fundraising pot to fill, the appeal is our commitment to deliver the difference for the 65,000 people who will walk through the doors of the Centre each year for treatment.As well as the fundraising that will further enhance this excellent facility, were preparing to be in the Centre day in, day out, supporting patients and staff.Our welcome team will be the friendly faces greeting patients and aiding their navigation through the building, while our gardening crew will maintain the tranquil green spaces that have been incorporated into the design in order to provide a quiet spot away from everything else.All the while, our wellbeing services will continue, with our dedicated complementary therapy room providing a spa-like setting for our much-loved massage, hydrotherm, podiatry, nail and hair and wig services.