Cancer survivor, author, speaker and mentor Andrew Mullaney was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2024 after becoming increasingly exhausted - despite having no other obvious symptoms.
What initially appeared to be simply being unusually tired gradually became impossible to ignore. Andrew found he was struggling to concentrate while watching tv and could no longer drive for more than 20 minutes without feeling exhausted.
Extreme fatigue was his only symptom.
Concerned by the worsening tiredness, Andrew visited his GP, who recognised the significance of his symptoms and family history and acted quickly.
Following a series of investigations, including blood and stool tests, Andrew was diagnosed with bowel cancer.
He was referred to Russells Hall’s colorectal consultant and general surgeon, Dr Waterland, who removed the affected section of his bowel. Andrew then continued his treatment and recovery on our elective surgery unit at Russells Hall Hospital.
Now cancer free, Andrew is turning what was an incredibly difficult experience into something positive for others.
He has written two books as part of his Didn’t Anyone Ever Tell You? series, with his latest book, Didn’t Anyone Ever Tell You? Never Trust a Fart!: Surviving and Beating Bowel Cancer, sharing the story of his diagnosis, treatment, recovery and the importance of seeking medical advice when something doesn’t feel right.
As a way of thanking the NHS staff who supported him throughout his cancer journey, Andrew has pledged to donate 50 per cent of the proceeds from his books to The Dudley Group NHS Charity. The charity supports patients, families and staff across Russells Hall Hospital, Guest and Corbett outpatient centres and community sites throughout Dudley.
Andrew said: “I’m delighted and very proud to be supporting The Dudley Group NHS Charity, with 50 per cent of all income from my books in the Didn’t Anyone Ever Tell You? series going to the charity.
“My second book has just been launched and tells the story of my diagnosis with bowel cancer, my recovery, and why going to the doctors is so important. My only symptom was extreme fatigue!
“The services across the Trust, and all of the people there, played a part in saving my life. I’m very lucky and truly blessed.
“I hope the title raises a smile as well as generating some curiosity about bowel cancer. If it encourages even one person to get checked, then it will have done something worthwhile.
“Every life really does matter.”
Stephanie Samuel, Lead Nurse on B4 said, “Andrew showed remarkable courage throughout his treatment, and it was a privilege for the B4 team to care for him during such a challenging time. Seeing him now use his experience to support others is incredibly moving. We are truly grateful for his kindness and the positive impact his story will have on our community.”
Group Chief Executive at The Dudley Group, Diane Wake, who also wrote for the foreword for Andrew’s book said, “I’m honoured to have been able to read Andrew’s book. He has taken a deeply personal and often painful experience and turned it outwards into a story of support and encouragement for others.
“He’s reminded us that while cancer can threaten to take control, we can choose how we respond; through humour, connection and choosing to fight. I want to thank Andrew for finding a way to give others hope and companionship through this book and for the valuable funds he is donating to our charity that will make a difference to many people going through a similar experience.”
A further launch event will take place at DY1 in Dudley on Friday 18th September, with further details to be announced.
His message is simple: early diagnosis can save lives – and Andrew’s story is a powerful example of just that.
Andrew’s book can purchased via Amazon here.