...Is This Really Just Heartburn?
Eileen is a truly inspirational resident of Ballater in Aberdeenshire who has shared her experience having been diagnosed with terminal oesophageal cancer. With her support and that of her friends and local community, we are thrilled that we have been able to raise awareness amongst communities in the North of Scotland. Despite her illness, Eileen is determined to ensure that her experience can help others and that, together, our message reaches as many people as possible. Eileen explains, “I want to raise awareness so that others in my position have a better chance of survival in the future,”
We work to raise public awareness of the importance of not ignoring persistent Heartburn. Many people take heartburn remedies frequently for prolonged periods of time, some even for many years. Most are not aware that persistent heartburn (for more then three weeks) is one of the most common symptoms of oesophageal cancer and of the pre-cancerous condition Barrett's Oesophagus. Around 8000 people per year die from oesophageal cancer in the UK and sadly only about 15% of those diagnosed will survive for even 5 years, because, as in Eileen's case, the diagnosis is made too late. Better public awareness of the significance of the symptoms will lead to earlier diagnosis, a better prognosis for sufferers like Eileen and will save lives.
Your donations will help us to spread this simple but essential message throughout the UK so that anyone suffering from persistent heartburn knows that they should discuss it with their GP because it may save their life.
For more information please look at our website www.heartburncanceruk.org or call us on 01256 338668