A mum who complained of feeling "bloated all the time" was given a devastating cancer diagnosis.
The mum-of-five, who lost her husband just two years ago, said her symptoms started a few months ago, with her stomach feeling constantly bloated, but brushed it off as nothing.
But when the 39-year-old spotted blood in her stools, she visited the doctor who ordered further tests. Last week she was given the devastating news that she had bowel cancer, which travelled from her lower bowel and was now terminal.
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The mum from Widnes, who wishes to remain anonymous, says her only thought now is for the future of her children, who are aged between four and 13.
She said: "I was devastated for the kid's sake, as they have gone through hell losing their dad only two years ago, now I wake up feeling sick and worrying how the kids will grow up without me, I want the kids to remember me doing family activities together and showing them all how much I love them all the same and I will do this until I lose my battle."
She is also struggling to afford electricity for her family home, or to fill the cupboards with food for her children as her illness has pushed the family into poverty. She says her priority is now spending the time she has left on her kids and creating memories that will last forever.
She said: "I am desperate to make good memories everyday as no child forgets their childhood memories and I want them to remember me knowing I loved each and every one of them unconditionally. Hopefully I can take them on a few days out while I'm still able to."
A spokesperson for Halton Christmas Toy Appeal, which is supporting the family, said: "It is a really heart-breaking story and the sooner we highlight what this poor family is experiencing the better, everyday is now precious for mum."
The charity has made visits to their home and offered help and and support. If you would support the family you can donate here.
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