A GLASGOW woman has told how losing her uncle to bowel cancer before his 40th birthday has spurred her on to increase awareness about the disease.

Emily Gilli lost her beloved uncle Conrad in 2000, when he was just 39 years old, after he was diagnosed with the deadly illness following an investigation into suspected Crohn’s disease.

At the time, research into the disease was minimal and a late diagnosis meant there was little which could be done to save his life.

Emily, who works as a nurse, said: “I’m 36 this year and to imagine in a couple of years getting a terminal diagnosis - it’s horrible to think about.

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“I was 14 when he died and he was too young to qualify for the screening tests so it’s important to make people aware it happens to people much younger than you’d expect.”

Emily and Conrad

Emily and Conrad

It wasn’t until Emily’s uncle Ian was diagnosed with the same disease a few years ago, she realised how far the science had come to help find a better outcome for cancer patients.

Like her uncle Conrad, Ian was too young to participate in the screening programme, however, thankfully, he was able to make a full recovery thanks to early diagnosis.

As he entered remission, Emily, who lives in Rutherglen, was inspired to join Bowel Cancer UK’s Step up for 30 challenge to raise awareness.

The event encourages participants to take on their own personal challenge - from talking a long walk to running a marathon - every day for a month.

For Emily, it was a daily 30 minute walk.

She said: “My gran whose son died found it really comforting I did it in his honour. There’s still a big whole in the family so the fact that we’re still thinking about him is comforting for her.

“I wanted to make sure it was something simple. I would’ve failed if I set myself too big a challenge.

Emily Gilli

Emily Gilli

“I think that’s the key. It doesn’t have to be a massive thing.”

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Emily took on the challenge last year as the first lockdown began and managed to raise an impressive £385.

Now, she’s encouraging others to take on the task and continue the fight against the deadly disease.

“I walked around Cunningar Loop in Dalmarnock and back home every day so, it was 30 minutes and it did me good to get out,” she said.

“It also gave me a bit of time to think about my uncle and have some time for reflection.”

To sign up for the challenge and receive a fundraising pack, visit here.