In January 2013, Becky found she was struggling to get out of bed. Aged just 33 at the time, Becky admitted herself to A+E to find out what was wrong with her.
Unfortunately, Becky was diagnosed with cancer and a tumour had ruptured through her bowel. Her local hospital referred her for 2 operations and 6 months of chemotherapy to treat the cancer. But the cancer returned and spread throughout Becky’s abdomen, meaning standard treatments wouldn’t be possible.
As Becky’s local hospital could do no more to help her, they referred her to the Colorectal and Peritoneal Oncology Centre (CPOC) at The Christie. CPOC has an international reputation for treating advanced and early colorectal cancer, appendix tumours, peritoneal tumours, anal cancer and tumours within the pelvis.
Becky’s surgeon at The Christie Mr Malcom Wilson referred her for cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). This is a specialised type of treatment where surgery is used to remove the tumours. After this, a highly concentrated and heated chemotherapy is then inserted into the abdomen and circulated for about 90 minutes.
Thankfully, the cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC was a success and Becky’s cancer is now in remission. She’s incredibly grateful for the life-saving treatment she had at The Christie.