After her stage 3 diagnosis, Karen had surgery and eight rounds of chemotherapy. But in March 2024, doctors found tumors on her ovaries and belly wall. A further MRI revealed the cancer had spread to her liver—stage 4. “The NHS cannot offer other treatment except palliative chemo,” she said. “I’ve gone through the mill, but my time is running out.”
With few options left, Karen turned to a special treatment in Germany costing £30,000. It delivers chemotherapy directly to the tumors. “The tumors have shrunk nicely,” she said, “but I still need further treatment and I’m out of money.” Beyond the illness, she’s also facing financial hardship: “The mental torment is horrendous… I’m on statutory sick pay which runs out at the beginning of April.”
Despite everything, Karen became an advocate for better support. “People with stage four cancer feel totally abandoned,” she said. She urges everyone to listen to their bodies—especially when fatigue doesn’t go away.
Tips to reduce your colon cancer risk:
Eat more fruits, veggies, and whole grains
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
Stay active and maintain a healthy weight
Don’t ignore unusual changes in your body
Early detection matters—over 90% of people with stage 1 colon cancer live five years or more. Karen’s story is a reminder: don’t dismiss tiredness when it lingers without reason.
