Dubliner June Woodside has lived in England for more than 40 years. In January 2000 she was diagnosed with cancer of the colon. "I had symptoms for several months," she says, "but my GP thought it was an irritable bowel problem. Eventually a colonoscopy revealed a large tumour on my bowel."
June had surgery within days of diagnosis, and then a six-month course of chemotherapy. She has been in remission for the past three years, and believes that her strength of character has helped her through. "I'm a real fighter!" she laughs. "My consultant told me 'You have another chance at life, grab it with both hands!' and that's just what I'm doing. I make the most of every day, although I still get very tired."
June acknowledges she was fortunate that her cancer was detected early. "I've been very lucky. I would advise anyone with worrying symptoms to get themselves checked without delay."