Heather’s Story:

April is Bowel Cancer awareness month. To highlight this we’re sharing Heather Skinner’s story, told by those who knew her best:

Heather was just 36 when she was diagnosed with stage four Bowel Cancer in January 2021. She was the most beautiful, kind, smiling, caring, intelligent, social and devoted daughter, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, godmother, niece, cousin and dearest friend.

Heather had very few signs of how advanced her Bowel Cancer was. Following a lifesaving surgery she recovered well and thrived through – embracing holistic care such as practicing yoga, mindfulness, reflexology, exercise, her love of food and her love of being with people. Heather had a positive spiritual energy when it came to dealing with her diagnosis. She was passionate about building awareness of the disease. She touched so many lives by courageously sharing her Bowel Cancer journey through social media, magazine interviews, radio shows and fundraising events.

Heather died peacefully surrounded by her loving family and friends in the caring hands of St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown in October 2022.

In honour of Heather’s legacy, we want to continue to shine her light through raising awareness of Bowel Cancer and working towards reducing the age of the Bowel Cancer screening programme in Ireland.

This month, we are also taking on a 100 mile challenge to raise funds to fulfil one of Heather’s greatest wishes – providing additional comfort care equipment for patients on the Oncology Haematology Day Unit in the Mater Hospital. This is where Heather was cared for and received treatment every week.

Please join in our challenge or support us here:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/shiningheatherslightforbowelcancer-1680132101526

For more information on Bowel Cancer, please visit:
Bowel cancer – Symptoms and diagnosis – HSE.ie