On 29 February 2016 I was diagnosed with a very rare cancer called neuroendocrine cancer of my small bowel following dozens of blood tests, scans, a biopsy and finally a major bowel operation. I was heartbroken as we had initially thought the tumour might have been benign but sadly my cancer had already spread to my lymph nodes.

Neuroendocrine cancer is a terminal cancer and has no known cure. The cancer is typically very slow growing and because of that chemotherapy is too aggressive and not advised. Instead, I take a monthly hormone injection called Lanreotide which wouldn’t be so bad except I am very scared of needles! This sometimes makes me feel quite unwell but fortunately I am unlikely to lose my hair. However, I have been so moved by the thought of those that do that I wanted to donate my hair anyway to make a wig for other young cancer patients.

To help those affected by chemotherapy I have decided to have my hair cut at the Ride for Hope charity event at Edge Church Bristol on Saturday 28th May 2016. The hair will be donated to Little Princess Trust who will make and distribute the wig and the money will be donated to CLIC Sargent who have been a great support to me and other young cancer patients.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and donating to CLIC Sargent.

Rachael x

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