Bowel cancer charity marks two decades of support, saving lives
CHARITY Bowel Cancer Guernsey is marking 20 years since it was founded.
It came about thanks to sisters Anne Brouard and Sara Gould after they lost their sister, Jane, to bowel cancer when she was 43.
‘I’m so proud of how much we have achieved over these past 20 years. It’s certainly been a team effort between our committee, the HSC, PEH and of course islanders across the Bailiwick,’ said chairwoman Ms Brouard.
‘In addition to hosting so many fabulous and memorable events, we’ve worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the disease while helping to generate the vital funds needed to help prevent it.’
The charity’s fundraising efforts have contributed to providing training and equipment to help with the detection and treatment of bowel cancer.
In October, Bowel Cancer Guernsey purchased a new diathermy unit for the endoscopy suite at the PEH, which cost £23,000.
The new unit has allowed patients to receive early treatment on-island and has reduced patient waiting times and the need to travel off-island for procedures, which previously saw islanders travelling to Southampton.
‘Thanks to the charity’s very important work and advances in the diagnosis and treatment of bowel cancer, we are in a strong position to help more people affected by the disease,’ said Medical Specialist Group lead oncologist Dr Peter Gomes.
‘Through consistent fundraising activity the charity has helped enormously in the purchase of vital equipment, improving the investigation and care of bowel cancer patients.’
Dr Gomes explained that the work of Bowel Cancer Guernsey has undoubtedly saved lives.
‘The charity’s work promoting greater awareness of the symptoms and signs of the disease has encouraged more people to visit their doctor sooner.’
Ms Brouard said that the charity will be building on its previous work to help more islanders as it enter its third decade.
