Family Of Manchester Mum Who Died From Bowel Cancer Raising Awareness Of Disease In Bid To Help Others

The devastated family of a Manchester mum who died aged 40 from bowel cancer are raising awareness of the signs of the disease in a bid to help others.

Helen Dutton attended her GP surgery in October 2016 complaining of abdominal cramps and bleeding. Following blood tests, she was advised her symptoms were ‘likely to be’ irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and was prescribed medication.

Around two years later, Helen, of Droylsden, Manchester visited the surgery again with back pain and ongoing bowel issues. Blood test results found intestinal inflammation.

Manchester mum diagnosed with bowel cancer

Helen was referred to the colorectal surgery department. Further tests including a colonoscopy were carried out. She was diagnosed with cancer the following month and underwent treatment.

Helen was subsequently advised the cancer had spread. Following the news, she instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate her care and whether her cancer could have been found sooner.

Helen, who was mum to Lilli-Mai, now 17, died in August 2021. Her partner Darren Rosheski, 52, is now continuing her case.

Family and legal team support World Cancer Day

With legal investigations continuing, Darren is joining with his legal team in marking World Cancer Day by raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer.

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“The last two-and-a-half years have been incredibly difficult for Helen’s loved ones, particularly Darren and their daughter Lilli-Mai, who have understandably been struggling to come to terms with losing their mum and partner at such a young age.

“Their grief has been made worse by questions and concerns they have over the care provided to Helen. We’re now investigating whether more could have been done to help her.

“The family also hope that by sharing Helen’s story, they can make others aware of the signs to look out for when it comes to bowel cancer. Early detection and treatment is key to beating this disease.” Nicola Ashton, Medical Negligence lawyer

Bowel cancer: Helen's story

Helen first attended a GP appointment in October 2016. Blood tests indicated low B12 levels but no other abnormalities. No further investigation was recommended or arranged.

In September 2018, Helen reported back pain as well as a two-year history of bowel problems including urgency and bloating.

Following further testing, a tumour was found. Helen was diagnosed with cancer in January 2019. She underwent radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery which left her with a permanent stoma.

In August 2020, Helen was advised the cancer had returned. Further chemotherapy was carried out, but the cancer was found to have spread.

Former finance manager Helen died in hospital in August 2021.

Tradesman pays tribute to 'beloved' partner and mum following cancer death

Darren, a tradesman, said: “Helen had struggled with her bowels for a while but when she was told it was likely to be IBS, we trusted the professionals. To then be given the news that she had cancer was a huge shock.

“Helen and I had been together for almost 20 years and I couldn’t imagine not spending the rest of my life with her. She was determined to fight the cancer with everything she had.

“Sadly, it wasn’t enough and our beloved Helen was taken from us far too soon. She was the best mum to Lilli-Mai and to see our daughter having to navigate through life without her mum is heart-breaking.

“We have so many unanswered questions and while we would give anything to have Helen back, we know that’s not possible.

“All we can hope for now is that by sharing our story, we can raise awareness of bowel cancer and its symptoms. Watching Helen suffer towards the end was unbearable and catching the disease early could be the difference between life and death. If we can save another person by speaking out, it will have been worth it.”

World Cancer Day is 4 February.

More information on bowel cancer

Signs and symptoms of bowel cancer include a persistent and unexplained change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, extreme tiredness for no obvious reason, bleeding, a pain or lump in your tummy. For more information, visit the Bowel Cancer UK website.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting families affected by bowel cancer at our dedicated bowel cancer claims section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0808 303 8148.