Bangor man battles bowel cancer from small early symptoms to his life-changing diagnosis
A Bangor man diagnosed with Bowel Cancer is bravely sharing his deeply personal journey to raise awareness and encourage others to act quickly if they notice any symptoms.
Bowel Cancer is a general term for cancer that develops in the large Bowel (Colon) or Rectum. It is the third most common cancer in Northern Ireland and the second leading cause of cancer death.
Each year, around 1,100 people are diagnosed and more than 400 people die from the disease.
Jeremy Stewart, was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer in April 2025, after spotting what he describes as a “very, very small trace of blood in his stool”, a sign he initially dismissed.
Jeremy said: “The blood in my stool was so small, I almost ignored it. But when it came back a couple of weeks later, I decided to make an appointment with my GP and that decision made all the difference.”
Jeremy was seen quickly by his GP, who took his concerns seriously and referred him for a Colonoscopy. The test revealed a tumour in his lower Bowel.
Jeremy recalled: “That moment was the hardest part of the entire journey. It was a real shock. You are suddenly faced with the unknown, you do not know what lies ahead. Those first few weeks were very frightening.”
Following his diagnosis, Jeremy underwent Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy before making the decision to have surgery.
In November 2025, he had a six-hour operation to remove part of his Bowel and spent three weeks recovering in hospital. He is now nearing the end of a 12-week course of Chemotherapy.
Jeremy said: “It has been a long journey, almost a year, but I am coming to the end of it now. I can honestly say the care I have received has been absolutely outstanding.”
Jeremy praised all those involved in his treatment in the Ulster Hospital, “Everyone has been so professional, but also incredibly kind and compassionate.”
Now, he is determined to use his experience to highlight the importance of early detection, particularly among men, who he believes can be reluctant to seek medical advice.
“I would have been someone who rarely went to the Doctor,” he admitted. “But if you notice anything unusual, no matter how small, do not ignore it. Go and get it checked.”
South Eastern HSC Trust, Colorectal Nurse Specialist, Sarah Christie highlighted the signs and symptoms to look out for.
“Symptoms of Bowel Cancer can include blood in your stools (faeces), an unexplained change in Bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhoea or constipation, unexplained weight loss or abdominal pain, extreme tiredness for no obvious reason or a pain or lump in your tummy.
“These symptoms are often similar to less serious Bowel conditions. However, it is important to know what is normal for you and to contact your GP if any of these symptoms last for more than three weeks.
“GP’s will assess symptoms and if necessary, refer patients for further investigation.”
Sarah explained that several factors can increase the risk of developing Bowel Cancer, including:
• age (around 80% of cases occur in people over 60),
• diets high in red or processed meat and low in fibre,
• obesity
• and lack of physical activity,
• alcohol consumption and smoking,
• family history or inherited conditions and existing Bowel conditions.
Stressing the importance of taking part in Bowel Screening when invited, Sarah added; “Bowel Screening saves lives and it plays a vital role in detecting cancer early, often before symptoms develop.
“In Northern Ireland, people aged between 60 and 74 are invited to take part in Bowel Cancer Screening every two years. The test is completed at home in private and can detect hidden blood in the stool.”
Jeremy underwent Bowel Cancer Screening previously and is encouraging everyone who is invited to take part. He said: “I was lucky my cancer was caught early and it had not spread. Screening and early action can save lives, it is as simple as that.”
Reflecting on his journey, Jeremy has one clear message: “If you have the slightest concern, go to your GP. Do not put it off. The earlier you catch it, the better your chances. It could save your life.”
For more information about Bowel Cancer Screening, contact the free helpline on (0800) 015 2514 or visit:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/bowel-screening-test-kit-instructions
