THROUGH the contents of this letter could I explain a memorable journey that I have been on in the past six weeks.

It started when I encountered periodic bouts of loose bowel movements and an unexplained pain in my right shoulder.

After a consultation with Dr Rasheem at Penketh Health Centre she facilitated a meeting for me with a consultant named Mr A Abdelrazeq.

After further investigation and scans, I was invited to a meeting with Mr Abdelrazeq along with my family – wife, three daughters and my granddaughter to explain that my diagnosis was that of upper colon cancer.

All options were outlined and he reassured me that I would get the best possible treatment after he ascertained the full extent of the cancer during surgery.

I agreed to the surgery and in good humour explained that I only wanted the best outcome available.

Mr Abdelrazeq had placed us all at ease and reassured me that my apprehensions were duly noted.

After having my pre-operation at Halton Hospital, I was admitted to ward A6 at Warrington Hospital where I was made most welcome and treated with the upmost respect and courtesy by all the nursing staff and doctors.

My operation was completed by Mr Abdelrazeq over a six-hour period during which I had a wonderful dream of catching cod in Norway – being the keen fisherman that I am.

During my recuperation period I was placed on a variety of medication to ease the discomfort and pain that I experienced after the surgery.

After a period of being nil by mouth I welcomed the good choice of lovely food provided by the hospital.

In the past I had always been sceptical about modern medicines and the impact they were having on people’s lives even though my youngest daughter is a nurse in a local hospital.

After witnessing and experiencing first-hand the dedication shown by all the staff and doctors on ward A6 – not forgetting the chirpy domestic team – I would like to say a big thank you.

My stay was memorable and pleasant and I feel the hospital is a gem for the people of Warrington.

Mr Abdelrazeq and his team are the experts in this field and their dedication was outstanding.

The essence to beating colon cancer is to get checked out early and allow Mr Abdelrazeq to work his magic.

JAMES GANNON Penketh