My colon cancer story was quite the inspiration to the people around me.
I was soon to be off my mom’s insurance when I turned 26. At 25, I decided to get checked for colon cancer, as I do have a family history.
I went to the gastroenterologist, where I discussed that I wanted to be tested. I was asked by the doctor if I had any signs or symptoms, which I did not have. The doctor seemed a bit unsure about testing me, but after reviewing my family history he had agreed to let me get a colonoscopy.
I went in on a Monday in July of 2014. I walked out knowing there was a large mass visible that would require surgery and I would get biopsy results by Friday. The following Friday came, and it was confirmed that I had colon cancer. It wasn’t anything you ever want to hear, let alone at the age of 25. The following Monday I met with my surgeon, who had performed my father’s partial colectomy about 20 years prior.
Then Friday, operation day came and I got to the hospital around 6 a.m. Shortly after I had my surgery and a partial colectomy was performed. A few days later I received the news that I had 17 lymph nodes around the mass. They all came back clear, as the cancer did not travel. I was released from the hospital a week after my surgery, as my intestines were not alerting very fast.
That week in the hospital was a crazy, wild, unforgettable, and unfortunately traumatizing ride. Through the healing process, I met with an oncologist who diagnosed me as stage 2A colon cancer. Fortunely, chemotherapy or radiation was not required. I now get tested every year to stay proactive!
Being a colon cancer survivor has made me view life in a whole different perspective, tomorrow is never guaranteed. Losing my grandfather and my uncle at a young age has made my family a bit more proactive with the horrible disease. I try to keep everybody aware as you are never too young to battle this. Cancer has no age discrimination.
Return To Faces Of Blue Learn More About Colon Cancer In Young Adults
