Esteemed boxing coach Joe Gallagher has called for increased public awareness after receiving a stage four bowel and liver cancer diagnosis.
The 56-year-old, who discovered his condition in November 2024, revealed in his heartfelt announcement that he has begun chemotherapy treatment. A Manchester native with more than two decades of training under his belt, Gallagher was honoured with the Ring Magazine Trainer of the Year award in 2015, thanks to his successful work with boxers like Scott Quigg, Anthony Crolla, and Liam Smith.
Sharing about his fight with cancer, Gallagher delivered an urgent message to others about the importance of health checks. “It’s been a lot to take in over these past few months,” his statement read.
“I just wanted to carry on as normal as possible while I tried to process things. I would like to say no matter how busy life gets, your health should always come first.
“We can overlook things and put things off because we’re always so ‘busy’, but ultimately, there’s nothing more important than your health. I didn’t have any major symptoms, so if you feel something isn’t right, no matter how small, please don’t put it off – please go and get checked, as it could save your life.
“I want to thank my family, friends, my fighters and the people I’ve been able to confide in so far on this journey. Their support has been incredible.
“I know I have to prioritise my health at this time, yet boxing is giving me that bit of escapism I need right now. As I go through my own battle, being around an incredible team of fighters is helping me continue to do what I love.
“I’ve only just begun my fight back against this disease; there’s still so much I am processing, which is very hard to talk about right now; it’s also a very difficult time for my family and friends, too.”
Bowel cancer ranks as one of the UK’s most prevalent cancers, representing approximately 11% of all new cases. On average, 44,000 individuals are diagnosed with bowel cancer each year, and over 16,800 lives are lost annually to the disease, according to Cancer Research UK.
The NHS lists symptoms of bowel cancer that may include changes in bowel or bladder habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Liver cancer, conversely, can be more elusive, often presenting no clear symptoms or ones that are difficult to identify.
NHS advice underscores that while worrying symptoms are usually not indicative of cancer, it’s crucial to consult a GP. Early detection makes cancers significantly easier to treat, they add.