A Mearns woman whose husband survived bowel cancer is urging partners and families of sufferers to seek support.
Sarah Haugh was speaking out as new research, commissioned by the charity Beating Bowel Cancer, highlights the hidden pain of family and friends.
The research shows bowel cancer does not just affect those going through the disease, but hits loved ones hard leading to family break-ups, sleepless nights, fear, loneliness and even guilt.
Sarah, 49, who lives in Laurencekirk with her husband Richard, said: “Our world was shattered in 2012 when Richard was diagnosed with bowel cancer.
“Facing this alone, frightened and exhausted while trying my upmost to maintain some sort of normality for our children was one of the hardest things I have ever done or will do.”
Richard is now cancer-free.
The couple are supporters and fundraisers for Beating Bowel Cancer and Sarah now runs the relative to relative support forum, where carers can find confidential support.
Sarah added: “The emotional impact on family and friends can be very isolating. It might appear that you are coping but the reality is often different. It can make such a difference to talk to someone who understands what you are going through.”
For more information and help visit www.beatingbowelcancer.org.