"Invitation to bowel cancer screening at age 55"

when I received the first appointment letter I must admit that I only glanced at it.

I thought it would just involve having to provide a stool sample or something - which would be no problem. Later, when I read it properly, and discovered that it was an internal examination my immediate, ‘knee-jerk’ reaction was “no way!”

However, after much thought I decided that I would have the examination – it seemed like a really good idea and could possibly save my life – what’s not to like?

…but…I did have some concerns, and some difficult, soul-searching questions – because of the very nature of the examination. I thought they may have opened a can of worms.

Recently I have had 'gender issues' which means that I could only treat this as an intimate exploration (of a very personal nature). My biggest fear was coming away from the examination traumatised and tearful. That would be just terrible - but it could easily have happened - it’s just the way I am - an emotional being. I couldn’t just lie there like a piece of 'dead meat' and grin and bear it while I was being poked and prodded. I wanted to come away smiling rather than crying - I didn’t want to regret saying yes.

But...here I am one week later. Am I traumatised? No. I am fine and I am smiling :-)

The staff who perform the examination are wonderful. They put you completely at ease and are very professional and efficient. In fact the whole procedure is more like a (somewhat exotic) 'spa treatment' than a medical!

You might think I am a sad person but the really sad part of this story is that the take-up rate for this examination is only 45% (so I have been told).

I must encourage everyone who has been invited for bowel screening to go for it.

It's not nearly as bad as it sounds and it could save your life. You might even enjoy it!