OH SH!T, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer — A bold, raw and supportive narrative from one patient’s journey

Ely, UK – 24 November 2025 — GRC Solutions, in partnership with David Barrow and Bowel Cancer UK, is proud to announce the release of OH SH!T, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer, a book that blends candid storytelling, practical insight, humour and compassion to help those touched by a bowel cancer diagnosis.

Drawing from the author’s personal experience, the book takes readers beyond medical facts and statistics into the emotional, logistical and human realities of life with bowel cancer. It is part memoir, part guide, part companion to others navigating a similar path.

• Unflinchingly honest narrative — The author shares triumphs and setbacks, fears and hope, in a voice that is at once raw, relatable and real.
• Practical guidance — From navigating hospital appointments and treatment decisions to managing side-effects and relationships the book offers actionable insight.
• Empowerment through awareness — It encourages open conversations and reducing stigma around bowel cancer.
• Supportive companion — Readers don’t walk alone: the book points to resources, support networks and coping strategies.

Through its blend of personal storytelling and practical wisdom, OH SH!T, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer aims to comfort, educate and galvanise patients, survivors, carers and the wider public towards more open dialogue and proactive care.

From the Author

“What started as journaling for my own mental health became something much more powerful, a way to document the madness, the humour, the pain, and even the hope that came with a bowel cancer diagnosis.

I never set out to write a book. I just needed somewhere to put the fear. But over time, those pages became a companion, first to me, and now, I hope, to others. If you’ve just been diagnosed, or love someone who has, this book is here to support you.”

From Bowel Cancer UK

Luke Squires, Director of Fundraising at Bowel Cancer UK, says: “We’re very touched David has chosen to support Bowel Cancer UK through this compassionate book. Every effort to share personal experiences and raise awareness makes a real difference to people affected by bowel cancer. The money raised from this special book will help us to continue funding our vital services and lifesaving research.”

From GRC Solutions (Publisher)

“When David first approached us with his proposal, it wasn’t our typical subject matter. But, as one of our existing authors, we didn’t hesitate to support David in his journey and help share his story for the benefit of others. We are honoured to bring this book to the public — it is the kind of publication that combines narrative strength with genuine usefulness. We believe it will resonate deeply with many people — patients, families, professionals — and help change how we speak about cancer and its aftermath.”

OH SH!T, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer is available now in print and e-book formats via all major retailers and digital channels, with a portion of the proceeds from every purchase donated to Bowel Cancer UK (reg. Charity no: 1071038).

For interviews, review copies or media enquiries, please contact [email protected].

About the Author
David Barrow has spent more than 30 years in service management, helping teams deliver work that actually serves people. When bowel cancer arrived, all that “process” met something messier: fear, fatigue and the relentless business of getting through a day.

He serves on the ISO committee developing IT service management standards and contributes to the British Computer Society’s ITSM and ITAM committees. David is committed to advancing service management education through his work with the British Standards Institute. Passionate about equal opportunities, he mentors for various organisations including the University of East London and Reed’s Women in Technology initiative, leveraging his expertise to support and guide future professionals in the technology sector.

David’s other titles include An Education in Service Management – A guide to building a successful service management career and delivering organisational success | IT Governance UK and Allyship Actually – Why it’s ‘We’ and not ‘Me’ | IT Governance UK.

About Bowel Cancer UK
Bowel Cancer UK is the leading national charity in the UK dedicated to prevention, awareness, research and support for those affected by bowel cancer. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. Our vision is a future where nobody dies of the disease.

About GRC Solutions
GRC Solutions is a publisher committed to amplifying voices that matter and delivering expert content in multiple formats to a global audience. We collaborate with industry experts to produce high-quality publications about best-practice frameworks, compliance and technical subjects. With our unparalleled industry knowledge, we are able to continually expand and diversify our portfolio while providing a personable and flexible service.