Hello, 

My name is Alison. I'm 37 years old and I've recently been diagnosed with bowel cancer. This has hit me hard- I'm a single mother of 3 and a competitive runner who once ran for North Wales. I was so shocked and scared to hear my diagnosis. I have started this petition to lower the age of bowel cancer screening.

I had symptoms that were difficult to notice and easy to ignore - I had IBS already, so it was hard to tell. Within a month of me going to the doctor, I was quickly diagnosed and sent for an operation which was successful followed by some chemo to be sure.

I am so grateful to be given another chance at life as not many people are so lucky - it really is the silent killer.

I was told that if I'd have left it another year then I'd have been in serious trouble. While people under 60 might not be the majority of bowel cancer sufferers, the consequences of not catching it early are grave - and allows the NHS to save money on treatment later on. 

Younger people need educating more on the signs and symptoms as I do think alot of people might not realise the signs or they think they're too young and it won't happen to them. 

In Scotland the age has been lowered to 50 - I have started this petition to get the same for England and Wales - or even age 45 if possible. 

Thank you for taking time to read this and I wish you all good health.