Emma's Walk Together event in memory of her husband Martyn

Emma Matthews has organised a Walk Together event in Cornwall this September in memory of her husband, Martyn, who sadly passed away from bowel cancer. She says:

Fundraising and raising awareness of the charity's work has never been more needed since the pandemic and I am sad to hear it has left the charity suffering a large income loss of almost 40%.

I started to support Bowel Cancer UK after my dad was diagnosed and my husband Martyn died aged 34 of the disease. Finding out about the charity has helped me in my grief and allowed me to share our story with others to help raise awareness and make changes to the health system – a promise to Martyn I made, which I couldn't have done without the support from the charity's staff, who have been extremely caring and supportive throughout.

Bowel Cancer UK gave me a purpose when I needed it most and the online friendships I have gained has helped me come to terms with the trauma and loss I suffered. Marty was told he was too young to have bowel cancer, despite him having all the symptoms of it for over a year. However, my dad (aged 63) on the other hand, had no symptoms but was very lucky to have it picked up from doctors routinely running an investigation after he suffered a small heart attack.

The sad truth is, after Martyn's death, I quickly discovered his case wasn't as rare as the doctors believed it to be and it was clear that too many young people were needlessly suffering and being diagnosed too late with bowel cancer.

I was unable to take part in the first Walk Together as I didn't feel well enough to travel and be away from home, so I decided to set up my own walk in memory of Marty around one of his most favourite places in Cornwall – Crantock and the River Gannel. It was a gorgeous day and tickets sales for the walk raised almost £700 for the charity. Due to the pandemic stopping the larger organised walks this year, I really hope supporters will go the extra mile this year and plan their own five mile walks around special places that are close to their hearts. It's a chance to make it extra special for you and your loved ones. We can all still make a difference together and help Bowel Cancer UK continue their research and support.

This year, I will be walking and celebrating the Walk Together in September with my family and making new memories of our favourite place in Cornwall.

To find out more about our walk, visit www.memoriesofmarty.co.uk/never-too-young

Walk Together this June

Walk Together is a sponsored five mile walk to show our support for those undergoing treatment, to remember loved ones and help stop people dying of bowel cancer.

On Saturday 12 June 2021 we're asking you to join us and walk five miles in your own time, at your own pace, in your local area, with your household or within small socially distanced groups. By walking on this date we will be together, across the country, completing our five miles on the same day.

However, if you can't make this date then you can still walk anytime throughout June to suit you.