As some of you may know, my Sister, Heather, died from bowel cancer last year.

What you may not know is that bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK and the second most common killer. However, early diagnosis can have a huge impact on the chances of survival. You should also know that if you have one close relative with a history of bowel cancer, your chances of getting it are doubled. If you have two, it is quadrupled.

Sadly, due to fear, lack of knowledge or, often, embarrassment, early diagnosis is not always made, frequently with tragic consequences. The charity, 'Beating Bowel Cancer' works to raise awareness in order to improve early diagnosis and therefore save lives. 

On August 4th this year I'll be cycling 100 miles as part of the RideLondon event and it would mean a lot to me if you could sponsor me to help this cause. Even if you don't, please at least read about the disease as it may save your life one day; especially if you have a relative who has been previously diagnosed with bowel cancer.

Those of us who were lucky enough to know Heather have not spent a day since May 22nd 2012 when we have not thought about her. She is deeply missed and I hope that, due to increased awareness, less people will have to go through what she did.

Thanks for reading this,

Jeff.