Nicola Karayannis was diagnosed with an aggressive and advanced bowel cancer in December 2023 and sadly died in March 2025. She was 45 years old and had lived a healthy life without any obvious factors that would increase her risk of developing cancer. She did, however, have a genetic mutation (in her BRAF gene), which affects 10-15% of bowel cancers, and which typically responds poorly to treatment.

Nicola was determined to stay positive and live her life throughout her illness, and was lucky to have access to fantastic medical care through her oncologist Dr Khurum Khan, who is at the forefront of research in this field and ensured that she had access to the latest treatments.

Bowel cancer is growing in the under 50s and has become a global issue, without a clear understanding of the root cause. Fortunately, there is increasing awareness through the fabulous Bowelbabe fund and others, whilst the PROSPECT team is undertaking an ambitious global project in this space.

We want to build a positive legacy from Nicola’s illness; one that reflects her fortitude and courage but also her kindness and care for others.

As a result, we are delighted that Dr Khan has agreed to work with us in Nicola’s name to inspire and fund further research in this space. For now, we are seeking donations to support targeted research into Nicola’s Braf-mutant strain of bowel cancer, specifically to identify patient response to targeted Braf therapies. In time, we hope to expand and extend the scope of our work.

Nicola was an inspiration to many, and we hope to use her example to ensure a better outcome for future friends, family and colleagues impacted by this aggressive disease.

We would love you to consider supporting us in Nicola's memory. 100% of all funds donated will be directed to Dr Khan’s Braf research under the guidance and support of the Karayannis and Shaw families.