Frome family’s story in new film to tackle misconceptions of bowel cancer

A NEW film that is raising awareness of bowel cancer has been produced by The Bowel Movement – a charity set up in memory of Benjamin Millard, from Frome, who died from bowel cancer at the age of 33.   

Benjamin’s sister, Abby Morris, is fronting the new film called ‘Don’t Sit on Your Symptoms’ aimed at raising awareness of the disease. 

Benjamin Millard died of the disease just before his 34th birthday.  He was a fit man who went to the gym twice a day.  By the time his bowel cancer was diagnosed, he was told it was stage 4 and the prognosis wasn’t good.   

It was her brother’s story that encouraged Abby to set up The Bowel Movement. 

“On the face of it he was such a fit man,” said Abby. “When we heard the news, it was devastating. It was so hard to believe.” 

Abby, who is a lecturer at Lancaster University said, “It’s vital we challenge this misconception that young people don’t get bowel cancer. Early diagnosis is so important – and GPs have a big role to play in that.” 

Abby has now told her story alongside another woman with a personal tale of bowel cancer, in a film that has been produced to warn others of the dangers and encourage people to come forward if they are displaying symptoms. 

The film has been produced by former BBC correspondent Clinton Rogers, who says he just wants to people to be aware – and not be embarrassed to come forward if they have symptoms. 

Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK.  Yet consultant colorectal surgeon Paul Mackey, from Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, says it is people’s reticence to come forward that can lead to serious problems. 

Paul, who also features in the film said, “People are reluctant to talk about their bowel symptoms and their toileting habits – and that is a big issue.  

“But if you’ve got on-going bleeding, if you’ve got an on-going change in your bowel habits, you must come forward and be investigated. The rule is: Don’t sit on your symptoms.” 

Don’t Sit on Your Symptoms has become the title for the film, which can be viewed on the website of The Bowel Movement (www.thebowelmovement.uk)