A unique networking event has been held for patients who have undergone bowel cancer treatment at Rosemere Cancer Centre.

The Bowel Bonanza event, which took place at the Barton Grange Hotel, was funded by charity Rosemere Cancer Foundation and organised by Royal Preston Hospital’s colorectal specialist nurses.

Around 200 patients and relatives met to offer one another mutual support. They also listened to speakers including colorectal surgeons, oncologists, psychologists, support group leaders and fellow patients.

Colorectal and stoma care cancer nurse specialist Helen Brookes said: “The
bonanza was an opportunity to bring past and present users of our colorectal service together with its healthcare professional providers and those supporting them, including organisations such as Macmillan, counselling services, patient associations and stoma product representatives among many more.

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“It helped us gather patient feedback, which is vital in making service improvements as we strive to provide the best personalised care for our patients.”

The bonanza was organised as a one-off but may become an annual event due to its success.

Helen said: “We are very grateful to Rosemere Cancer Foundation for its support with staging costs and we were able to show our gratitude by returning almost £1,200 to the charity, half of which came from the sale of raffle tickets for a luxury raffle we held on the day, while the rest came from donations from exhibiting companies.”

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What do you think of the Bowel Bonanza? Let us know in the comments.