“I decided to raise funds for Back Onside and Beatson Cancer Charity for the support that they’ve given me during a difficult time”

Hey! I’m John Paul, a trustee for Back Onside. In November 2021, during a check-up for Ulcerative Colitis, it was discovered that I had developed stage 2 colon cancer. Due to both my Colitis and Cancer it was decided to remove my colon and in December 2021 I underwent an operation to remove it and create a permanent stoma.

During this time, Back Onside offered me and my family counselling and support. I really didn’t know how to process everything that was happening and the counselling I received helped me through understanding how I was feeling and learning to cope. Their continued support to me and my family is greatly appreciated and needed.

“I had been a part of Team Back Onside for a while and I’m so grateful to have had their support when I needed it.”

Thankfully, my operation was a success. I rang the bell to mark the end of treatment on Easter Monday and I’ve been told I am cancer free. My stoma bag is as much part of me now as the hair on my head and honestly I wouldn’t change it for the world, it has given me a new quality of life I haven’t had in 25 years. 

To say thank you to Back Onside and Beatson Cancer Charity, I decided to run the Great Scottish Run 10k with some friends in October. We have raised almost £4000! 

“You never know when you might need mental health support. It’s ok to struggle and it’s ok to reach out. Back Onside provide a safe space when you need it, they’ll take a huge weight off your shoulders.”

The services that Back Onside provide are only here because of support from people like you. If you can, please consider taking on a fundraising challenge, organising an event or giving a donation by clicking here. 

And please remember, Back Onside receives no government funding and can only continue with donations and fundraising from people like you. Please, give what you can to help more people like me.

Thank you,
John Paul