When Sarah Hawkswood noticed something wasn't quite right, she never imagined she'd become her own lifesaver. The 45-year-old mother from Cheshire spotted a subtle change that medical professionals initially dismissed, but it turned out to be early-stage bowel cancer.
The Life-Saving Observation
"I noticed my stools had become ribbon-like and thin," Sarah recalls. "It wasn't painful, and I felt perfectly healthy otherwise, but something told me this wasn't normal." Despite visiting her GP twice and being told it was likely irritable bowel syndrome, Sarah's instinct pushed her to seek further investigation.
Fighting for a Diagnosis
After persistent requests for referrals, Sarah underwent a colonoscopy that revealed the shocking truth: she had bowel cancer. "The consultant told me my observation had saved my life," she says. "That thin stool symptom was the only red flag, and if I'd waited for other symptoms like bleeding or pain, it might have been too late."
The Treatment Journey
Sarah's cancer was caught at stage two, allowing for successful surgical treatment without requiring chemotherapy. Her recovery has been positive, but she's now determined to raise awareness about this often-overlooked symptom.
Key Bowel Cancer Symptoms Everyone Should Know
- Changes in bowel habits lasting three weeks or more
- Blood in your stool without obvious reason
- Unexplained weight loss
- Extreme tiredness for no clear cause
- Pain or lump in your abdomen
Sarah emphasises: "Don't be embarrassed to talk about bowel movements. That conversation could save your life. If something doesn't feel right, persist until you get answers."
A Message of Hope and Vigilance
Now cancer-free, Sarah is passionate about encouraging others to trust their instincts and push for investigations when they suspect something's wrong. "We know our bodies better than anyone," she says. "My story proves that being proactive about your health can make all the difference."
