Heartbreaking Loss
Kasia Pietrzak shares the devastating story of losing her mum, Krystyna, to bowel cancer just two weeks after her diagnosis. Krystyna's reluctance to discuss her symptoms led to a tragic outcome.
Raising Awareness
Kasia, now 43, is participating in Bowel Cancer UK’s Swim15 challenge to raise awareness about the disease and its symptoms. Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK, claiming 16,000 lives annually.
Early Detection is Key
Early diagnosis is crucial for treating and curing bowel cancer. Research shows that over 90% of people survive when diagnosed early, highlighting the importance of awareness and timely screening.
Turning Grief into Action
Two years after her mum's passing, Kasia is honoring her memory by participating in the Swim15 challenge to raise funds for Bowel Cancer UK. She hopes to emphasize the significance of completing screening tests for early detection.
Advocating for Change
Campaigners like Dame Deborah James have been advocating for earlier testing and treatments to improve survival rates for bowel cancer. Public awareness is increasing, but more efforts are needed to combat this deadly disease.
Impact of Diet
A recent study suggests that diet may play a significant role in the development of bowel cancer, particularly among young individuals. Understanding these risk factors is essential for prevention and early intervention.