Bladder cancer patient offers reassurance to those facing surgery
11 reported
A letter published in The Guardian on June 4, 2026, responds to a June 2 report about a drug trial that could potentially spare bladder cancer patients life-changing surgery. The letter writer, Gail Cartmail of London, states she was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2020, similar to artist Tracey Emin. Cartmail describes her experience living with a urostomy bag after surgery that included removing her bladder. She notes that the paucity of public toilets requires mapping alternatives, as bladder bags have much less capacity than a natural bladder. Cartmail says she always carries a spare kit and, following advice from stoma nurse specialists, it is possible to avoid leaks. She reports that she can again enjoy all-year-round outdoor swimming and walking, and finds entertainment venues helpful in booking end-of-row seats with easy access to toilets. Cartmail advises that being open with colleagues, friends, family, and even strangers is beneficial, and that wearing a bladder on the outside requires adjustments but is nothing to be embarrassed about. She concludes by telling those facing bladder surgery not to despair, describing it as life-changing but manageable and life-saving.
What’s reported
The letter responds to a June 2 report about a drug trial that could potentially spare bladder cancer patients life-changing surgery.
The writer, Gail Cartmail of London, was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2020.
The writer states that Tracey Emin was also diagnosed with bladder cancer.
The writer had surgery that included removing her bladder.
The writer notes a paucity of public toilets and that bladder bags have much less capacity than a natural bladder.
The writer always carries a spare kit and, following advice from stoma nurse specialists, says it is possible to avoid leaks.
The Urostomy Association is described as a mine of useful information.
The writer reports enjoying all-year-round outdoor swimming and walking.
The writer finds entertainment venues helpful in booking end-of-row seats with easy access to toilets.
The writer advises being open with colleagues, friends, family, and strangers about the condition.
The writer tells those facing bladder surgery not to despair, calling it life-changing but manageable and life-saving.
Key figures
Gail Cartmail – letter writer and bladder cancer patient from London
Tracey Emin – artist, mentioned as also diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2020
Sources: The Guardian
