Gemma talks of the day she was told she had young-onset bowel cancer 'You instantly think of your children. I’ll never forget that one moment!'

Experiencing ongoing vomiting and stomach pain, Gemma was diagnosed during the Covid-19 pandemic with stage IV bowel cancer at the age of 35. Stephanie and Gemma talk about the emotional toll of being isolated from her family and friends throughout treatment.Gemma discusses peritoneal metastases, including hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), which involves filling the abdominal cavity with chemotherapy that has been heated (also known as 'hot chemotherapy') following surgery to remove cancerous tumours.Passionate about raising awareness and helping other young people, Gemma also discusses the need to connect with a good support network and encourages people to savour the special milestones and enjoy the things that make you happy.