Jane takes steps to support bowel cancer charity

A CARE worker has spoken of the “very scary and anxious” time after discovering she had bowel cancer.

- By FELICITY COLLINSON

Jane Watson, from Billingham, was diagnosed with the disease in January, just weeks into starting a new job.

The 58-year-old grandmother had been suffering from stomach cramps, and when she saw a doctor was referred to the University Hospital of Hartlepool for tests.

Jane's results confirmed she had the illness, and she had to undergo an operation to remove a third of her bowel and the tumour in February, and then further treatment to ensure she was cancer free.

She needed 11 weeks off work to recover, and says she was supported the whole time by her new employers, AAA Homecare, also in Billingham.

Jane, who has since made a full recovery, says the firm went above and beyond, with her boss Gavin Hobson even offering to attend hospital appointments with her.

Jane, who was able to claim sick pay during the time she took off work, says the support she received from her employers made a huge difference to her well-being.

In October, the grandmother walked 44 miles to raise money for the Bowelbabe Fund, set up in honour of Dame Deborah James.