My name is Peter, and in January 2021, I was diagnosed with stage 2 colorectal cancer.

Since then, I’ve completed treatment and am in remission, but taking medication still.

It started with stomach pain and irregular bowel movement that was hard to control. I also found blood in my stool.

I found out I got stage 2B colorectal cancer. The tumor had penetrated the muscular layers of my colon.

I used to have six alcoholic drinks a week, but after my diagnosis, I cut it down to just three per week. I’m also eating a healthier diet most days of the week.

As per my doctor’s recommendations, I opted for segmental colectomy, removing the affected portion of the colon and nearby lymph nodes, as well as chemotherapy.

I’ve since completed treatment, but am currently taking vitamins, calcium and medications to help with digestion.

Other than nausea and vomiting, I also had peripheral neuropathy and postoperative ileus. Apart from prescribed medication, the ailments I took to cope with these side effects include:

• Ginger tea to help with digestion and help with nausea,
• Peppermint oil to help with stomach pain and help with bowel movement, and
• Probiotics for my gut.

The chemotherapy caused a lot of gut problems. I was trying to get more bowel movements.

After starting treatment, I continued my healthier eating habits throughout the week.

I wanted to live. It was my greatest inspiration. I don’t have any loved ones or much family; I plan to go fishing, and play poker with my buddies.

I feared pain the most. I tried acupuncture to have more pain relief. I personally felt that it was useful. I also drank herbal teas.

Years have gone by since my diagnosis, and I feel rather neutral now.

Try your best to live. There might be nothing out there after you go, or there might be everything. We do not know. The only thing we can do is to make the most of what we have now. We can’t just give up because we do not know what’s after this. We only have 1 life. Try your best to live it and possibly save it.