Let’s be real—this wasn’t the blog post I thought I’d be writing. One minute I was sat on the bed chatting with Mike and Ellie about my long wait for a foot operation, and the next I was staring at my NHS app, blinking at a new referral: “Two-week pathway for suspected bowel cancer.” Wait—what?
I knew I was waiting for a colonoscopy after dealing with some bowel issues, but this was the first I’d heard of anything more serious. Previous tests hadn’t raised any red flags, so seeing that referral felt like a punch to the gut

The Sudden Shift: From Routine to Urgent

The very next day, a letter arrived from the hospital. I had an appointment in just a few days with the endoscopy unit, plus an invite to take part in a new Triomic research study. It was all happening fast—like someone had hit the fast-forward button on my life.
At the appointment, they asked about my symptoms, reviewed my blood tests, and did an examination. That’s when the consultant decided I needed an urgent colonoscopy to check for bowel cancer. I remember sitting there, feeling like I was watching it all happen to someone else. It was surreal.

Bowel Prep & Brutal Honesty

Soon after, I received letters for both a telephone consultation and the procedure itself. During the call, they asked about my medications, symptoms, and gave me strict dietary instructions. Basically, if it had colour, I couldn’t eat it. The prep drinks? Let’s just say they tasted like the worst shots you’ve ever had—and never trust a fart during this phase. I mean it.

The Big Day: Colonoscopy Chaos

I arrived at the hospital, filled out a questionnaire, and got changed into a gown and some very questionable pants with a hole in the back (yes, really). I opted for sedation, hoping I’d barely remember the procedure. Spoiler alert: I remembered everything. It was agony.
I ended up sucking on gas and air like it was my last breath—so much so that the nurse had to tell me to chill out and breathe slower. Oops.

The Diagnosis: Diverticular Disease

After the procedure, I was taken to recovery, still in a lot of pain. The nurse explained that they’d found diverticular disease—a condition where small pockets form in the bowel wall. Apparently, the water and air pumped into the bowel during the procedure can get trapped in these pockets, making it more painful than usual.
I was given IV paracetamol and told, quite seriously, to try my best to fart. Yes, that was my official medical advice. After a few hours (and a few attempts), I was finally allowed home with my new diagnosis.

Final Thoughts: Listen to Your Body

Now I’m adjusting to life with diverticular disease and feeling incredibly grateful that it wasn’t something more sinister. If you’ve been experiencing bowel symptoms or feel like something’s off—please get checked. I was lucky, but it could have easily gone the other way.