"This team is a testament to what the NHS aims to deliver."

In March this year I noticed some blood in my stools, I immediately contacted my GP practice and was offered an appointment with the ANP that day, she done my bloods and gave me a qfit test to hand in, at 46 I am below screening age.

After a positive result I was sent for urgent colonoscopy and attended the following week. Unfortunately I did have a tumour in my bowel. After that, I was directly in the cancer pathway and my surgeon, Mr Ekatah made contact with me almost right away to discuss my options and answer any questions I may have.

A CT scan revealed no spread and I was listed for my operation within 4 weeks. Mr Ekatah and his team of nurses kept in contact with me and I was fully informed and assured I was in the best hands. I underwent robotic surgery to remove 1/5th of my bowel along with some lymph nodes.

Mr Ekatah came to see me on the ward post surgery and I was discharged the following day. I had daily contact with either Mr Ekatah or Jane the enhanced recovery nurse for the first week and there were check ins thereafter.

My whole experience was amazing, I was 100% confident in my surgeon and although no-one would wish for a cancer journey, I would have no fear if I had to undergo similar treatment in the future. This team is a testament to what the NHS aims to deliver.