A NEWPORT cancer sufferer whose operation was cancelled three times has finally had the vital surgery.

Sandra Lowe underwent the major operation to remove her oesophagus yesterday - more than three weeks after it was first due to take place.

As we revealed yesterday, the surgery was due to take place on Wednesday at the Royal Gwent Hospital and Mrs Lowe was all prepared when she received the upsetting news that it had been postponed for a third time.

The 54-year-old former care worker needed an intensive care bed following the operation but each time emergency admissions meant her surgery had to be put on hold.

However, Mrs Lowe remained in hospital following Wednesday's postponement and was able to have the vital surgery yesterday.

It has been a stressful time for Mrs Lowe and her husband Mike who told the Argus she was very upset after the operation was cancelled yet again.

Mrs Lowe, of the Gaer, was diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus in October and subsequently underwent two cycles of chemotheraphy which successfully shrank the tumour.

She was first due to have her operation carried out on January 19 by renowned specialist Mr Wyn Lewis but it was cancelled as she was on the trolley about to leave for theatre. The following week it was called off the day before it was due. Mr and Mrs Lowe have emphasised that they had no criticism of Mr Lewis or any medical staff but felt the system was to blame.

David Kenny, public involvement officer for Gwent Community Health Council, told the Argus: "There needs to be sufficient capacity in the system to ensure that people have access to the treatment they need when they need it."

A spokesman for Gwent Healthcare NHS Trust said they were pleased the operation had finally been able to go ahead.