- Diagnosis: FAP
- Symptoms started to show in 2000
- Long lead in time to discover her FAP status
- Had surgery in 2004
- Has since lead a normal healthy lifestyle
- Enjoys being a member of the PolyPeople team!
Ruth’s Story
I first realised something wasn’t right in 2000. I had bleeding from my bowels and discomfort of the stomach. I spent the next two years going to my local doctors and the local hospital having tests.
Unfortunately the local doctors did not know enough about FAP and such conditions so the diagnosis took longer.
“In 2003 I had my first appointment at St Mark’s hospital under Prof. Nicholas’ team (who has since retired).”
In September 2003 I was told I had FAP and that I would need an operation. At the time I was studying at university, so I booked my operation in for the following January (2004), giving me time to get ahead of my study’s to allow me to take time out. The operation was a success.
“I have since led a normal life. I have six monthly check ups and since the age of 25 I have started having my upper stomach checked – so far yearly.”
I was pleased when PolyPeople began because I think people who have FAP, MYH and so on could use the support of such a group – I know I could have benefited from it when I was diagnosed. I started out as Webmaster for PolyPeople, but now I have a young family, I would say I am more a general committee member who is still happy to help with the website or other as and when needed and when I am able.