Dr Anisha Patel, 42, was diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer at 39. After two live-saving operations and months of chemotherapy she has now been in remission for three years but suffering many of the after-effects of treatment.
Whilst trying to navigate her "new normal" mentally and physically and return to work as a GP in Horsham, West Sussex, Dr Patel has become a campaigner and advocate for women’s health. As well as campaigning for greater awareness of bowel cancer and its symptoms, she has appeared on ITV’s Lorraine to advocate for better understanding of cancer symptoms and the lasting effects, as well as advising on a multitude of women’s health issues.
This month Dr Patel joins Teens Unite, as our Beneficiary Lead on our board of trustees. This critical role will help to inform how we continue to support teenagers and young adults fighting cancer as we work towards building England’s first specialist young person’s cancer retreat, The House of Teens Unite.
Dealing with cancer at this age impacts every aspect of a young person’s life, from their friendships and education to their self-confidence and emotional wellbeing. When life is put on hold and becomes consumed by fear, isolation, and survival, Teens Unite enables those in their teens and early 20’s to continue living life, without the ‘c’ word holding them back.
Dr Patel said of her new role, “I have chosen to give my time as a trustee and volunteer for Teens Unite because I feel I’m in a unique position as both a doctor and someone who has had cancer to help navigate young people through treatment and beyond, as well as advising how to best provide support services for them. I have a greater understanding and empathy around the needs of those diagnosed and the aftermath that follows. Ultimately, I want the young people who come for help and connection through Teens Unite to feel supported and empowered after diagnosis of their cancer, during their journey and beyond treatment.”
Teens Unite CEO, Roxanne Lawrance said, “We are thrilled to have Anisha join our Trustee board. Through her role as Beneficiary Lead, she will help to inform our service provision, ensuring every young person feels supported and empowered no matter where they are in their experience with cancer. Anisha brings with her both knowledge, experience, and passion to ensure we as a charity are providing the very best support for young cancer fighters.”
You can follow Dr Anisha on her Instagram account: @doctorsgetcancertoo
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