Bowel cancer is often thought of as an illness that affects older adults, typically those over 50. But Ellie Wilcock, a young woman from Peterborough, UK, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer at just 25. Her story highlights an essential message: bowel cancer can impact people of any age, and recognizing unusual symptoms early on could make all the difference.
Ellie now shares her journey to raise awareness and help others recognize the early warning signs of bowel cancer—signs that young adults, especially, may easily overlook. Here’s her story and the unusual symptoms she wants everyone to watch out for.
Ellie’s Initial Symptoms: When Pain Felt Like Something Else
In 2021, Ellie began experiencing a sharp pain on one side of her abdomen. At first, she thought it was a common urinary tract infection (UTI), as the pain was localized and mild. Doctors agreed with her assumption, initially diagnosing her with a UTI.
But when antibiotics didn’t help, the pain persisted and worsened. Ellie decided to look deeper into what might be causing her discomfort. “The pain was in my left side, and I thought it was urinary pain,” she shared. However, the pain was actually a result of a tumor obstructing her large bowel, a symptom she hadn’t associated with cancer.
The Diagnosis: Stage Four Bowel Cancer
After experiencing pain and noticing other worrying symptoms, Ellie went through several tests, including blood work and an ultrasound. Initially, doctors suspected an ovarian cyst, but when her pain grew unbearable, Ellie visited the emergency room for more urgent help.
It was then that doctors conducted a biopsy, and Ellie received the diagnosis that changed her life: stage four bowel cancer. By this stage, the cancer had spread beyond her bowel to her liver, ovaries, and peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal organs). The diagnosis was devastating, but Ellie’s determination to fight—and to educate others—grew stronger.
Unusual Symptoms of Bowel Cancer in Young Adults
@elliewilcock0 Replying to @court951 Signs and Symptoms 🎗️ #cancertok #symptomsofcancer #symptoms #cancer #bowelcancer #coloncancer #cancersurvivor #cancersucks #chemo #fypage #fyp ♬ original sound – Ellie Wilcock
Ellie’s experience serves as a critical reminder that bowel cancer symptoms can be subtle and easy to dismiss, especially in young people who may not be aware they’re at risk. Here are the key symptoms she encountered and wants everyone to watch for:
1. Persistent Abdominal Pain Misinterpreted as a UTI
The first symptom Ellie noticed was persistent pain on the left side of her abdomen. Initially, she and her doctors thought this pain was due to a urinary tract infection. But the pain was actually caused by a tumor obstructing her bowel. Abdominal pain related to bowel cancer can be confusing, often mistaken for UTI or digestive discomfort, but Ellie’s story emphasizes that any unusual or persistent pain should be checked thoroughly.
2. Unexplained Changes in Bowel Movements
Ellie also experienced fluctuating bowel habits, which she describes as going back and forth between constipation and diarrhea. “For me, it was a constant change between the two, but it just wasn’t normal for me,” she explained. This change in bowel movement can be a warning sign of bowel cancer. The constant shifts can be a symptom of an obstruction or other abnormalities in the digestive tract.
3. Extreme Fatigue Beyond Ordinary Tiredness
Another symptom Ellie noticed was severe fatigue that interfered with her day-to-day life. She found herself feeling drained after work and would immediately want to go to bed. “I was really tired, I was really fatigued. Even sitting at my desk, I was falling asleep,” she recalled.
While fatigue can have many causes, persistent exhaustion that feels unusual for you is worth investigating. Cancer can cause fatigue due to the energy demands of tumors and the body’s immune response to the disease.
4. Blood in Stool: A Telltale Sign Often Ignored
The last symptom Ellie wants to highlight is the presence of blood in the stool. She admits that at the time, she didn’t fully realize she had this symptom. Looking back, she recognizes it as one of the critical warning signs. “It could be bright red or dark red, but anything that isn’t normal for you and you’ve noticed consistent blood in your stool, then get it checked out,” she advised.
Many people may feel embarrassed or hesitant to discuss this symptom, but Ellie stresses that addressing it early is essential for timely intervention. Blood in the stool can indicate a range of health issues, but persistent or unusual bleeding should always be examined by a healthcare professional.
The Diagnostic Process: Navigating Tests and Persistence
Ellie’s diagnostic journey underscores the importance of persistence when it comes to health concerns. After receiving negative results for a UTI, she continued seeking answers as her pain intensified. Subsequent blood tests revealed inflammation somewhere in her body, leading doctors to order an ultrasound, which ruled out an ovarian cyst.
Finally, after the pain became unbearable, Ellie sought emergency care, where a biopsy revealed the true cause: bowel cancer that had spread to other organs. Her story is a testament to advocating for oneself in the medical system and pushing for thorough tests when something doesn’t feel right.
Treatment and Recovery: A Hard-Fought Victory Over Cancer
After the diagnosis, Ellie faced an intense treatment plan, including multiple surgeries to remove cancerous tissue and chemotherapy to address the spread. Despite the stage four diagnosis, Ellie fought bravely, enduring each step with determination and support from loved ones.
In August 2022, Ellie received the news she’d been hoping for—she was cancer-free. Her hard-fought battle was finally over, but her mission had only just begun. She now dedicates her time to raising awareness, particularly among young adults who might not realize that they, too, can be at risk for bowel cancer.
Why Bowel Cancer Can Affect Young Adults
While bowel cancer is more common in older adults, cases in younger people are on the rise. Research indicates that lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and family history can all play a role in bowel cancer risk. Although the exact reasons for this increase are not fully understood, it’s clear that awareness and early intervention are crucial for all age groups.
Bowel Cancer UK reports that around 44,000 people in the UK are diagnosed each year, with 17,000 deaths from the disease. Though it’s often seen as an older person’s disease, Ellie’s story shows that cancer doesn’t discriminate by age.
Take Action: Recognize and Address Symptoms Early
Ellie’s experience is a vital reminder that anyone, regardless of age, should pay attention to unusual symptoms and changes in their body. If you notice persistent abdominal pain, unexplained changes in bowel habits, extreme fatigue, or blood in your stool, seek medical advice promptly. It could be the difference between catching a condition early and facing more severe consequences.
Conclusion: Ellie’s Message of Hope and Awareness
Ellie’s journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery is an inspiring story of resilience and advocacy. Her courage in sharing her experience shines a light on bowel cancer in young adults, spreading awareness about symptoms that may seem minor but can signify something much more serious.
Her message to everyone, especially young people, is clear: trust your instincts, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to seek help if something feels off. Early detection is crucial, and by recognizing the warning signs, you can take control of your health. Ellie’s story is a powerful reminder that with awareness and action, lives can be saved.
