After a doctor’s examination, 31 year old Marie was told she had hemorrhoids'. She was referred to a specialist. The specialist performed a sigmoidoscopy and discovered what he believed was a rectal carcinoma, a form of bowel cancer. Marie had more tests, which confirmed the specialist’s diagnosis. After an initial major surgery, Marie had several follow-up surgeries over a period of 12 months.

She was paid out on diagnosis of the cancer and received a lump sum which she personally used for reducing some debt and then went on an overseas holiday after her treatment was completed.