Stories
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John's story
"You're a very lucky man."
My doctor's words led me to reflect on the past events which had brought me to this meeting in my doctor's surgery and his insightful statement.
Doing a screening test for bowel cancer didn't really bother me. I felt very fit and had no reason to think anything serious might be wrong.
But my test was positive. During a colonoscopy several large growths (polyps) were found on the inside of my bowel. My doctor told me I was extremely lucky they found and removed them when they did as they were on the verge of becoming cancerous. If I hadn't done the test when I did I would not have known they were there until it was too late.
I was fortunate I turned 65 when I did. If I had been just one year older I would not have been entitled to a free screening kit from the Government and I might never have gotten round to doing this test which arguably saved my life.
That's why I would encourage everyone to do one of these tests every two years from the age of 50. If you're lucky like me and are turning 50, 55 or 65 before end of December 2010 you'll get a free one from the Government. But if you're over 50 and not in one of these age groups, speak to you doctor, A few extra minutes in the bathroom could save your life too.
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