Mayor raises more than £6k for Oxford colorectal charity

The campaign, spearheaded by Rawda Jehanli during her mayoral tenure, managed to collect the impressive sum for Occtopus, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals with colorectal ailments such as bowel cancer, Crohn’s, and Colitis.

In addition to advancing vital research, the money will significantly contribute to patient wellbeing undertakings and enhanced colorectal care at the hospital.

During her visit, Mayor Jehanli engaged with the colorectal department, learning more about the issues faced by patients and the critical role Occtopus plays in their recovery process.

Reflecting on the experience, the mayor emphasised her personal connection to the charity following her own bowel cancer diagnosis in 2023.

Speaking about the visit, Mayor Jehanli expressed her gratitude for the medical professionals at the hospital, noting their dedication and commitment to patient wellbeing.

“I have directly experienced the importance of exceptional care during a colorectal cancer diagnosis and wanted to not only give something back but also raise awareness on the importance of knowing the bowel cancer symptoms because the earlier it is treated, the better the outcomes,” she said.

Occtopus and Oxford University Hospitals representatives expressed thanks to the mayor and her local supporters for their dedication to boosting patient care across Oxfordshire.

The charity, since its inception, has pioneered groundbreaking treatments for colorectal cancer, colitis, and Crohn’s, while also funding national and international research projects to enhance patient care standards.