Why embarrassment could cost your life

Kat Beckford, Alice Rowbottom and Shaun McGowan in a scene from “You, Me, Us”

A THEATRE company used the power of drama to convey important messages about bowel cancer in a production at the Salt Cellar cafe in Oldham.

The play, “You, Me, Us”, performed by the Pyramid Theatre Company, took an honest, compassionate and sometimes humorous look at the disease which is the third most common cancer in the UK. It focused on Rodney, whose embarrassment left him reluctant to discuss symptoms with anyone, even his doctor.

The play sees him cope with his diagnosis and treatment and take the first steps on the road to recovery, while learning the importance of talking openly about the condition.

After the play, audience members had the chance to discuss the issues raised with public health experts, consultants and nurses.

Evelyn Desai, consultant in public health at NHS Oldham, the local primary care trust, said: “It is essential that bowel cancer is detected at an early stage as early treatment can save lives.

“Often people keep quiet about symptoms because of embarrassment. It is essential that we get people talking, especially to their GP, and this play is a great way of encouraging this.”

For anyone who missed the play’s run in Oldham, the company will be performing in other towns across Greater Manchester, including Rochdale. The play is free, but booking is essential. Ring 01204-462 178 for details.