LOCKERBIE man John Withers has been reflecting on his recovery journey and speaking out about the importance of early diagnosis.
John was diagnosed with bowel cancer in November 2009. Despite having no symptoms the bowel screening programme helped find the cancer.
Due to early detection, John has made a full recovery from his cancer and has enjoyed family holidays to places like Canada, Barbados, Italy and Portugal, countless games of golf and, most importantly, has been able to watch his grandchildren grow up.
“Over the years that have elapsed since my cancer operation I have looked at life differently and now prioritise those things that really matter.
“I don’t worry as much and enjoy each day. I’m more appreciative of family and friends and the time that we spend together. It’s true that you can’t buy happiness!
“It has also prompted me to help others, and I now do voluntary work with Macmillan Cancer Support by working at their information centre in Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, a role that I have carried out for almost 14 years. I talk and listen to people who are currently going through treatment for cancer to offer them support, reassurance and encouragement.
“I feel in excellent health now. I do have to live with a stoma, but it doesn’t trouble me. I still enjoy the hobbies that I had before, including walking and golf. Life really hasn’t changed in that respect, but I no longer take my health for granted.”
Continuing in his efforts to help others, John has joined the government’s ‘Be the Early Bird’ campaign, which is encouraging people across Scotland to recognise possible cancer symptoms and not delay contacting their GP practice or dentist.
To emphasise this message, a group of ‘early birds’, above, met with Health Secretary Neil Gray to share vital stories of how early cancer detection provided more treatment options, helped them live well and allowed them to continue doing the things they love.
The group are urging other people across Scotland with unusual, persistent symptoms to do the same and act early.
John added: “My advice to others is not to be frightened or put off by the bowel screening test. I understand that some people, particularly men, can have an issue with taking a sample but the new test is even simpler now. It’s very easy and those few minutes doing it could save your life. It certainly saved mine.
“Cancer is not as scary as it once was and it can be very treatable, especially if caught early, so don’t put off taking the test. If you’ve got any symptoms, then I’d definitely recommend visiting your local GP practice and visiting getcheckearly.com.”
