Alison Lattimer, Newcastle

I have a genetic condition called Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome, which means I have a risk of developing large bowel, small bowel, breast, ovarian and pancreatic cancer. The symptom of this condition is regular growth of specific Peutz-Jegher polyps that will become cancerous if not removed. I was 35 when I was diagnosed with this genetic condition in September 2006. I have had three preventative bowel surgeries, a preventative hysterectomy, had a double mastectomy and reconstruction following diagnosis of breast cancer in both sides.

Symptoms started in 2005 and I had stomach pains, indigestion and was unable to digest food easily.  Doctors thought I had IBS and to treat the symptoms with diet. I was diagnosed with the condition through a colonoscopy with follow up MRI and CT scans. I then had to have bowel surgery. The growth of small and large bowel polyps I had at the time were so large they were causing a blockage.

My life over the last 12 years has been a series of serious operations and very regular screenings.  Despite this I have remained very positive! I love life, have continued to do everything that I have always done, but spend more time helping others through a number of volunteering and patient involvement activities.

I do have a regular fear and constant reminder of bowel and pancreatic cancer, something I know I have to live with and manage.

But we’re leading change

Never Too Young is leading change for younger bowel cancer patients. Every year 2,500 younger people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK. Our research has shown that younger bowel cancer patients have a very different experience of diagnosis, treatment and care.

What are we calling for?

• Improved clinical guidance and practice on bowel cancer in younger people
• Improved identification of people with genetic conditions and access to surveillance screening
• Improved information for younger people on bowel cancer symptoms