Hi my name is Richard. I have 4 kids and live in Essex. Five years ago I was diagnosed with a gastric neuroendocrine tumour at the age 31. With no obvious symptoms, this emotional roller coaster started with a routine gastroscopy to check the effectiveness of my stomach acid medication.

Bouncing between my GP and local hospital. I was told it might be cancer then told it wasn’t cancer, but luckily I was referred to a NET Centre of Excellence which is where I received my first clarification that I did, in fact, have cancer.
I vividly remember the feelings of being told it was then wasn’t cancer, extreme fear then relief. Then the fear back again when it was confirmed at The Royal Free Hospital.
I believe it is so important to raise awareness of this rare cancer as many cases go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for long periods of time and is why I am pleased to share my story with you.
4 years on from surgery and many tests later I am happy and doing well. I now help facilitate my local Natter  group for people with neuroendocrine cancer as my way of helping support those struggling with this disease and a way of saying thank you to NCUK to whom I owe my life.
For anyone who has suspected neuroendocrine cancer or awaiting diagnoses the best advise I could give would be to search out support from NCUK and their wealth of knowledge.