Farmer’s Misdiagnosis Leads to Terminal Cancer
John Saunders Davies, a well-known figure in the Welsh farming industry, recently revealed that what he initially dismissed as stress-related symptoms turned out to be a devastating diagnosis of bowel cancer. Living in Rhuddlan, Denbighshire, John now faces a grim prognosis of having no more than five years to live. His journey with the illness began with persistent stomach issues that he attributed to work stress as an agricultural fencing specialist. Despite the symptoms persisting for five months, John only sought medical attention in August 2023. Reflecting on his initial misperception, he shared, “I honestly thought the bad stomachs were me being worried because work was quiet.”
Upon visiting his doctor, John underwent blood tests and a stool test, which revealed concerning levels of blood in his stools. Further tests at Glan Clwyd in October confirmed the devastating news that he had bowel cancer that had metastasized to his liver. The diagnosis came as a total shock to John and his partner Emma, who struggled to come to terms with the grim reality. Despite undergoing treatment, John’s secondary liver cancer has returned, and his medical team is less optimistic about his prognosis. Determined to stay positive, John continues to undergo chemotherapy in the hope of extending his lifespan.
In response to his diagnosis, John has shifted his focus towards raising awareness about cancer symptoms and the significance of seeking medical advice when experiencing unusual symptoms. He emphasized the crucial role Emma played in encouraging him to seek medical help, potentially altering the outcome. Motivated to give back to the community that has supported him, John is organizing a fundraising event called “Behind the Gates.” The event, slated for September 14, aims to celebrate Welsh farming while raising funds for the hospital that has provided his care.
The event will feature a tractor run, stage performances, a farmers’ market, trade stalls, and various family-friendly activities. John hopes that sharing his personal journey at the event will help others recognize the importance of early detection and seeking support for mental health challenges. Despite his own battle, John remains committed to supporting his community and advocating for improved mental health services for farmers, a group he believes often suffers in silence. Reflecting on the event’s purpose, John expressed his desire to “save lives” by promoting self-awareness and encouraging individuals to prioritize their health.
John’s resilience and determination to make a difference underscore the significance of early detection and community support in the face of life-threatening illnesses. Through his advocacy and fundraising efforts, he aspires to leave a lasting impact on his community and create a legacy that emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeking help when needed. “If this event is my legacy,” John shared, “then I have truly done all I can to spread those messages of self-awareness, and if that saves just one life, it has all been worth it.”
For those interested in participating in or supporting the “Behind the Gates” event, additional details, including timings and contact information, can be found [here].
By sharing his story and mobilizing his community to rally behind a common cause, John exemplifies the power of resilience, advocacy, and community support in the face of adversity.