Three bowel cancer patients – including one currently undergoing chemotherapy – were among a group of 10 who completed a charity trek of one of the Lake District’s most challenging routes.
The hike raised almost £3,000 for The Bowel Movement, a charity launched by the family of Benjamin Millard, of Somerset, who lost his life to the disease in 2019 aged 33.
This year’s event was the charity’s third Lake District trek, with the group tackling Fairfield Horseshoe – an 11-mile route including eight mountain summits and more than 1,000 metres of ascent.
“This year we were joined by ten inspiring individuals, all of whom had been affected by bowel cancer either directly or indirectly,” Abby Morris, Benjamin’s sister and one of the trustees of the charity, said.
“The hike was physically challenging yet deeply rewarding. For us, it was so much more than a fundraiser. It was a chance to be in nature, share stories, and forge deep connections with people who truly understand what it means to live with and beyond a diagnosis.”
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with more than 44,000 people diagnosed every single year.
While the disease is commonly associated with older adults, cases in adults under the age of 50 are rising at an alarming rate.
Abby said: “Our mission is simple but increasingly urgent. We aim to raise awareness of the common signs and symptoms of bowel cancer and build a strong, supportive community for young adults living with this disease.
“Too often, symptoms in younger people are masked by our busy lives and can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed. We want to change that by breaking down stigma, encouraging people to speak up about their health, and ensuring that no one feels alone on their journey.
“We have always been humbled by the incredible support we have received. People from all walks of life have reached out to share their experiences, organise fundraisers, and help us spread life-saving awareness.
“Many of them have faced their own diagnosis, or that of a loved one, and they channel their energy into making a difference for others. Their passion fuels our work and reminds us daily why we started this journey. Benjamin’s story, like so many others, drives everything we do.”
The charity encourages everyone to think bowel and contact their GP if they develop symptoms of bowel cancer:
- Blood in your stools of bleeding from your bottom or persistent bloating
- Obvious change in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or feeling incomplete after going to the toilet)
- Weight loss for no explained reason
- Extreme fatigue
- Lump or pain in your tummy or bottom.
For more information or to get involved with a future fundraiser visit www.thebowelmovement.uk or email [email protected]
