By Isle of Wight Observer
Elaine Turner, from Ryde, is swimming 15 days in August to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK.
Elaine was diagnosed with the disease in 2021. By taking part in Swim15, she hopes to spread awareness of the symptoms for the fourth most common cancer in the UK, and how easily they can be missed.
Elaine, aged 55, said: “Doctors told me I only had two years left, but I passed that in May. I stay positive. My approach is that I can’t do anything about my cancer, so I’ve just got to get on with it. I know it’s different for my children and that’s the hardest bit.
“Sometimes I get cross with myself that I didn’t think it was bowel cancer sooner, but as a woman it’s different. We have so many stomach-related pains that we’re never going to think the worst. For all those who have been diagnosed, I want you to know that it doesn’t mean it’s the end. Don’t think the worst; just have your treatment, and make the most of your life doing the things you love.”
Every 15 minutes someone is diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK, so the charity is asking people to take to the water and set your own challenge using the number 15. Are you ready to take the plunge? Are you ready to take the plunge? Sign up today for Bowel Cancer UK’s challenge at iow.life/swim15, and get a free swimming badge.
