Patient and Public Involvement
The Yorkshire Cancer Research Bowel Cancer Improvement Programme is supported by patient representatives Emma Jackson, Karen Nile and Israel Dominic.
Emma, Karen and Israel joined the team in 2024. They provide direction to our programme to ensure that what we do and how we do it provides clear benefits to patients and also reflects their priorities.
Emma Jackson
"In February 2022, my first grandchild had just arrived and another was on the way, when I was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer following a fast-track colonoscopy. It came as a huge shock. Subsequent treatment was an operation to remove the tumour followed by adjuvant chemotherapy due to 1 lymph node showing signs of spread. Being part of a Yorkshire Cancer Research fundraising committee for several years and aware of the work they do made me apply for the role of patient representative for the Yorkshire Cancer Research Bowel Cancer Improvement Programme. I want to contribute to the important research into the diagnosis and treatment for people with bowel cancer both in Yorkshire and further afield" Emma Jackson
Karen Nile
"As someone with lived experience of bowel cancer, I have a vested interest in contributing to improved outcomes for cancer patients. Collaborating with clinical and surgical staff, researchers, fellow patients and carers within the Yorkshire Cancer Research Bowel Cancer Improvement Programme provides a unique opportunity to represent the patient voice, to identify patient priorities and to make recommendations on behalf of the wider bowel cancer community." Karen Nile
Israel Dominic
"In 2018, I was diagnosed with stage II bowel cancer at the age of 37. The diagnosis came as a shock, and I felt overwhelmed by the prospect of surgery, chemotherapy, and the unknown. However, I was fortunate to have a supportive family and access to exceptional healthcare professionals. Throughout my treatment journey, I encountered various challenges, including managing side effects of chemotherapy and surgery, coping with anxiety and depression and balancing treatment with daily life commitments. Despite these challenges, I received outstanding care from my medical team, which significantly improved my outcomes. However, I realized that not everyone shares the same experience, and variations in care can significantly impact patient outcomes. I aim to share my experience to inform programme decisions, provide patient-centered perspectives on improving bowel cancer care, support the development of patient-friendly resources and services and advocate for equitable access to high-quality care across Yorkshire." Israel Dominic
Emma, Karen and Israel are supported by the Bowel Cancer Intelligence UK Patient-Public Group (BCI UK) a team of independent patient advocates who represent the bowel cancer population and public at large. Their role is to act as critical friends to our programme to help in our mission to drive the production and analysis of data that will improve bowel cancer outcomes across Yorkshire.