I have recently taken up cycling and determined to do this challenge in aid of Bowel Cancer UK.

I have never done a challenge of this magnitude before and would be very grateful for you to support me by donating generously to this worthy cause.

I was diagnosed with bowel cancer in October 2010 at the age of 40

When I was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer, I was constantly told I was too young and fit to have Bowel cancer. I urge everyone who have symptoms to get it checked out sooner as early diagnosis will improve chances of recovery.

https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/symptoms/

Once I was finally, diagnosed everything moved quickly and within days I had surgery to remove part of my bowel.

I was measured up for a possible stoma and how to manage it, but I wouldn't know until I woke up following surgery if I would need one.

The first thing I remember after surgery was being told that it was successful, I didn’t need the stoma, and my lymph nodes were clear.

I am forever grateful for the early diagnosis and the treatment I received at St Marks Hospital

My late grandad was also diagnosed with Bowel cancer, mine was confirmed as not being hereditary.

Some family and friends do not know my personal story as I have not publicly shared this before.

So why am I sharing this now.? The road to recovery both mentally and physically was long and I shut myself away from everyone- in hindsight this was not the best thing to do, I would urge everybody to talk about it and seek support if necessary.

Bowel Cancer UK’s is a leading bowel cancer charity. They fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We’re here to stop people dying of bowel cancer.