Colon Cancer Stories

In June 2023, I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer after I sought medical attention for a case of piles.

Being constipated a good portion of my life, I was relieved with the change in my bowel habits but embarrassingly enough never contributed it to colon cancer.

I started noticing occasional traces of blood in my stool. I thought it was just hemorrhoids and that the symptoms were not serious.

My diagnosis was prompted by symptoms such as diarrhea, blood in the stools and a loss of appetite.

Don’t overlook your symptoms. We know our bodies the best so don’t let a doctor or anyone tell you differently, unless they have done the proper testing.

I noticed a stabbing pain in my stomach and blood in my stool. I also started losing weight and generally felt unwell.

I won’t sweat the small things anymore or company I don't enjoy.

I had a family history of cancer and I’ve lost my sister to the disease.

Cancer may have changed me, but it hasn't broken me. If anything, it's made me stronger, more determined to live life to the fullest.

My personal aspirations mostly center on completing my half marathon and achieving a good timing.

After seeking medical attention for a fistula between my colon and bladder, I found out that I had stage 4 colorectal cancer.

At first, I was very discouraged and scared about my limited options. Since the treatment wasn’t working effectively, I did some research and sought a second opinion.

I went for a colonoscopy and my gastroenterologist found the cancer in August 2023.

Be kind to yourself. Engage in open conversations with others and don't hesitate to seek assistance when needed.

I’m waiting for the birth of my newborn. It is what I’ve been looking forward to.

Cancer may have changed me, but it hasn't broken me. If anything, it's made me stronger, more determined to live life to the fullest.

I had a family history of cancer and I’ve lost my sister to the disease.

My biggest fear was losing my independence. I made a conscious effort to reclaim my independence in any way I could, by trying to keep everything as normal as possible.

My biggest dream is to continue teaching because I love my kids in school. Thinking about them and going back to work kept me motivated and focused.

This is my story of dealing with stage 2 colorectal cancer as well as lung adenocarcinoma. My biggest aspiration is to get my nursing license after completing my treatment.

I want to raise awareness about how important it is to go for screening like a colonoscopy. Colon cancer needs more awareness.

Throughout my cancer journey, I have been dealing with fear that the treatments wouldn't work. To deal with my fear, my doctor referred me to a therapist who can help with my anxiety.

My biggest aspiration is to live a long and healthy life with my wife who is also a breast cancer survivor. She’s motivated me to stay positive throughout my cancer journey.

Today, as I reflect on my journey, a myriad of emotions course through me. Initially, I was optimistic and confident. But now I feel fearful, overwhelmed and helpless.

My personal aspirations mostly center on completing my half marathon and achieving a good timing.

My advice to other cancer patients would be to tell people how you really feel.

I didn’t have any symptoms at all; rather, it was during a routine health checkup that the doctor advised me to get further tests.

Despite the pain and loss I’ve endured, I found optimism and gratitude for my survival and the chance to live fully.

Keep battling and try to retain a positive attitude. Spend time with your friends and family and don't be frightened to talk to them about how you feel.

The sudden weight loss I experienced was suspicious enough for me to seek online explanations for it.

My biggest fear now revolves around the upcoming surgery, as it entails the removal of my entire large intestine and living with a stoma.

My biggest desire is simply to spend as much time as possible with my loved ones. I'd love to see my daughter get married and start a family.

Someone who has, or has had cancer, preferably one with the same type as you.

Ask for help and have a support team. No matter what, you are an important person.

If at all possible, don't cancel or reschedule treatments or testing. Every day counts on this cancer journey and will matter in the end.