A diagnosis of stage four bowel cancer has prompted one mother to share her story, highlighting how easily serious symptoms can be overlooked. Zoe Gardner-Lawson was initially treated for a simple urine infection. In reality, she had an aggressive, lime-sized tumor that had been growing for years.
The first sign of trouble was a constant, dull pain in her lower back. When antibiotics failed to help, the pain spread to her abdomen and became debilitating. Persistent pain that does not respond to standard treatment is a key warning sign that requires further investigation.
After demanding a full-body scan, doctors discovered the cancer had spread to her liver and stomach. She underwent emergency surgery and is now receiving intensive chemotherapy. Her experience shows that aggressive “blastomas” can develop silently before causing a crisis.
According to the NHS, key symptoms of bowel cancer include persistent changes in bathroom habits, blood in the stool, and unexplained weight loss. Others may notice a lump in the abdomen, bloating, or feeling unusually tired without a clear reason.
Zoe is now advocating for earlier screenings to catch the disease before it spreads. Her journey serves as a vital reminder: if you feel something is wrong and symptoms persist, do not hesitate to ask for a second opinion or more detailed scans.