Anisha Patel
Dr Anisha Patel is a GP who has gained attention for her courageous journey with bowel cancer.
As a dedicated healthcare professional, Dr Patel was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer at a relatively young age, and her personal experience with the disease has shaped her advocacy for early detection and awareness. She uses her platform to raise awareness about the importance of screening and symptoms of bowel cancer, including working with and supporting Bowel Cancer UK.
On becoming an ambassador, Anisha said:
“I know how easy it is to explain away your symptoms and avoid visiting your GP. Many find it hard to speak about changes in pooing habits and let embarrassment get in the way of their health. That’s why I’m so passionate about sharing my story and why I’m happy to be a proud ambassador for Bowel Cancer UK.
“Alongside this fantastic charity and the bowel cancer community, I will work to help tackle the stigma around this cancer and raise awareness amongst health professionals and the public. Together we can make a difference and work to improve the lives of everyone affected by bowel cancer.”
Above: Dr Anisha Patel tells her story, and what she hopes to achieve as an ambassador for Bowel Cancer UK.
Anisha's story
My world crumbled: Anisha shares her bowel cancer experience and how it led to her becoming one of our ambassadors.
Six years ago, I noticed some changes to my bowel habits, including constipation, urgency in needing to go, and some blood. I put it down to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or piles, and thought my tiredness was caused by my busy lifestyle as a GP and mother to two energetic children.
As a doctor, I should have known better. But I thought because I was young and fit, with no family history of cancer, that I was fine. When my symptoms got worse, I finally went to my GP and was quickly referred for a colonoscopy.
In September 2018, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 bowel cancer, aged 39. My world crumbled. But I knew, even in those early stages, that I wanted to be open about my diagnosis and treatment.
A few weeks later I had an operation to remove the tumour. I was scared going into it as I didn’t know what I would wake up to. Thankfully, the surgery was successful. I had a temporary stoma for a while and three months of chemotherapy to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
I went through a whole host of emotions from anger, confusion and fear to acceptance and a determination to get through it. I believe in turning negatives into positives and this led me to focus on raising awareness.
Anisha's work with us
Presenting videos to raise awareness
Anisha generously gave her time and expertise to present some informational videos for us on the symptoms and diagnosis of bowel cancer. These help explain common questions about the disease, working to raise awareness and lower the barriers to early diagnosis of bowel cancer. You can find these on our website, as well as at the links below.
- What are the symptoms of bowel cancer?
- Seeing your GP - what should I expect?
- What to do if your GP asks you to do an at-home test
The London Marathon
In October 2021 Anisha ran the London Marathon, raising money for us. It was an incredible achievement and we're extremely grateful for her support. You can read more about their efforts here.
Learn more
- Learn the symptoms of bowel cancer
- Find out more about our work with health professionals
- Discover our other ambassadors