A Welsh man has issued a heartfelt warning about the risks of ignoring persistent health symptoms after discovering that his apparent intolerance to beer and pizza was, in fact, a sign of something far more serious. Rob McPherson, 39, who works in digital media and marketing, initially noticed minor stomach discomfort, cramps and bloating during his early thirties, but dismissed these as issues related to food intolerance.
Rob, who previously described himself as an average, active individual with a passion for football and enjoying social meals and drinks, first began experiencing symptoms in the autumn. What started as dull cramps and indigestion quickly escalated. “I thought it was just a reaction to bread or beer,” Rob recalls. “I just hoped it wasn’t because I really enjoy beer and pizza.” As time went on, he began eating less, his enjoyment of food diminished and his symptoms progressed to ongoing nausea and diarrhoea.
Despite his growing discomfort, Rob admits he was reluctant to seek urgent medical advice, expecting perhaps a simple at-home remedy. However, his symptoms became so debilitating that he ended up bedridden for a week, unable to work and struggling to sleep due to the pain and severe bloating. “I had to sleep on my back because of the discomfort and eating became pointless because I’d just bring it all back up,” he revealed.
It was only after his now-husband Sam insisted he reach out to the NHS non-emergency number that Rob began to realise the seriousness of his condition. Expecting little more than some advice to take painkillers, Rob was surprised when paramedics arrived and swiftly determined he needed to be taken to hospital. “That’s when it hit me—something was really wrong,” he said.
A hospital scan soon revealed a mass near Rob’s stomach, requiring immediate medical attention. Within 12 hours, he underwent surgery. The aftermath proved life-altering, as doctors informed him he would need a stoma and a biopsy to further investigate the mass. The experience was daunting, but Rob had little choice but to comply. “You have to just get through it,” he reflected.
In December, Rob received the diagnosis every patient dreads: bowel cancer. What followed was a punishing series of treatments—five weeks of combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy, followed by surgery to remove the tumour, and further chemotherapy as a precaution. The journey was both physically and emotionally challenging, yet Rob’s determination and the unwavering support from Sam, who later became his husband, proved invaluable.
Rob emphasises the importance of not dismissing or “toughing out” mysterious symptoms, expressing regret that he delayed seeking professional help. Research from NHS England backs Rob’s observations, revealing that nearly half of men feel pressured to present a strong façade when confronting potential health concerns. “I probably waited too long. I just thought I could handle it,” Rob admits.
Now cancer-free and discharged from regular hospital care as of June 2023, Rob is keen to use his experiences to urge others, particularly men, to take their health seriously and to never feel ashamed about reaching out for support, whether from healthcare professionals or loved ones. “The scar I have is a reminder of what I went through, but I’m proud of it. It shows what I’ve overcome,” says Rob. He credits the NHS’s professionalism, and in particular the compassionate care shown by his nurse, Debbie, for helping him through the darkest times.
Rob’s story is a powerful reminder that even the healthiest individuals are not immune to serious illness. He encourages everyone to talk openly about their concerns and stresses that asking for help is neither weakness nor inconvenience. “The NHS is there for a reason, and those closest to you can often spot signs you may ignore. Don’t hesitate—getting checked early saves lives,” he insists.
NHS England’s ‘Help Us Help You’ campaign echoes Rob’s advice, encouraging anyone who has experienced abdominal discomfort or diarrhoea for three weeks or longer—or has noticed blood in their urine, even just once—to book an appointment with their GP. Knowing your own body, Rob says, is key to catching problems early. “If you’re worried, don’t waste time worrying in silence. Get tested—it could make all the difference.”