In 2016 my husband was diagnosed with bowel cancer aged 37 years. It was a case hard fought but sadly lost within the space of two years. We have been held together by a network of family, friends and the indomitable team at Falkner House school, all of whom are helping us to move forwards as hopefully as possible. For this we continue to be extremely grateful.

Recently my sister suggested that I could take on a challenge in Tom’s name, to swim 6.5km from Asia to Europe across the Bosphorus. My initial reaction was “no way”. This is how the best plans are hatched. 

On 21st July I will be swimming my hardest in support of Bowel Cancer UK (BCUK, the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity). BCUK supported us during Tom’s illness and are invaluable to the many people who continue to deal with this very difficult disease. The charity needs every bit of help that they can get. 

As a doctor I felt very helpless in the face of Tom’s disease. It was highly aggressive and the list of therapeutic options was short. The truth is that bowel cancer (usually in its most “ugly” form) has surged amongst young people in recent years and it is not fully understood why.

BCUK funds targeted research, provides expert information and support to patients and their families, educates the public and professionals about the disease and campaigns for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care. Ultimately the BCUK goal is to stop people dying of bowel cancer.

BCUK is grateful for the support and says:

• £100 could fund two hours of research to improve surgical techniques for bowel cancer patients. We’re committed to funding research that improves the prevention, early detection and treatment of the disease.
• £250 could train a healthcare professional on bowel cancer prevention, screening and treatment. We run training, workshops and study days for healthcare professionals.

Please note: an annual memorial prize is being set up in Tom’s name at Worcester College, Oxford, with the help of some of Tom’s closest friends from his time at college as well as friends from Stone Chambers. This would be an alternative cause for much appreciated donations, please message Miranda if you would like to be kept informed about this.