Walk Together 2018

I am taking part in Walk Together in September because two years ago, I was diagnosed with bowel cancer. My amazing colleagues from the Oaktree School, who continue to support me on this difficult journey, are also joining me on the walk as the brilliant Team Oaktree Stars!

I feel very lucky to have colleagues who have been so supportive of me and my two children dealing with the realities of living with cancer and cancer treatments. We've already started our fundraising and between us all have raised over £800, and have already increased our fundraising target!

I was diagnosed with bowel cancer in September 2016. After a day out I nipped to the loo, and was shocked to see a toilet full of blood. Before this, I hadn't had any pain or symptoms, but it turned out I had a tumour in my rectum.

I had radiotherapy and chemotherapy for six weeks before the operation to remove the tumour. I then had a temporary ileostomy bag for 6 months, so my bowel could heal and at the same time had three more months of chemotherapy. When I had the ileostomy reversed and left hospital in October 2017 I was looking forward to getting my life back on track, spending time with my children and enjoying life.

It was a shock to be called back after the first follow up scan which showed that a mass had appeared in my lung, even though I have never smoked. I recently had the whole of the lower lobe of my lung removed and have been recovering well from this.

I am going to be starting another six month course of chemotherapy in August, so will be still having treatment when I do the walk. I'm excited to take it on alongside my brilliant and supportive friends, and am really proud of how we've all come together to make a difference.

Written by Janet Stacey, 2018