First Dates’ Merlin Griffiths shares ‘crucial’ way he could have beaten cancer sooner
FIRST Dates' Merlin Griffiths has shared a 'crucial' way he could have beaten cancer sooner.
The 48-year-old bartender was diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer in September 2021 and underwent chemotherapy and two operations to remove the tumour.
Now Merlin has shared his thoughts on how a different approach could have made all the difference in his battle against the disease.
Speaking about the new Help Us, Help You campaign, the Channel 4 star has shared a "crucial" tip that could have made his cancer "more treatable".
Merlin said: “I know from my own experience that being body aware is crucial to an earlier cancer diagnosis and could make it more treatable.
“We all need to be comfortable with noticing bodily changes that could be a sign of cancer and speak to a GP practice as soon as possible - the NHS is here for you whatever the result.
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“That’s why I’m pleased the NHS Bus-ting Cancer Tour is visiting Coventry, where I was treated, and bringing this important message directly to the public.”
Last week, a blue double-decker bus toured the UK, spreading awareness about cancer symptoms and encouraging people to see their GP for crucial check-ups if they notice anything out of the ordinary.
The bus emphasized that out of its 78 passenger capacity, 65 would have a higher chance of surviving cancer if detected in its earliest stage.
It comes after Merlin shared a candid health update in October.
“There is still a certain amount of classic British reserve in the way that we deal with a lot of health issues,” he told Express.co.uk
“And this one is particularly – it is in that area, isn't it? Because it's bowel cancer and in my case it was rectal cancer.
