Categories
CAPOX (capecitabine, oxaliplatin) Chemotherapy Colon Colorectal Patient Stories Surgery Treatments

Mark’s Experience with Stage 3B Colon Cancer

Mark S., Colon Cancer, Stage 3B

Symptom: Intermittent cramping of varying intensity, localized on the right side

Treatments: Surgery (colon resection), chemotherapy

Intuition, Self-Advocacy, and Support: Key Lessons from Mark’s Experience with Stage 3B Colon Cancer

Mark found out he had stage 3B colon cancer at 35, a life-altering diagnosis. He began having cramping episodes of varying intensity in 2020. Doctors initially mistook these for appendicitis. However, his intuition pushed him to get more tests. His hunch proved correct after a colonoscopy revealed a tumor that was later confirmed as cancerous.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Mark had surgery to remove a section of his intestines and several lymph nodes. Although his stage 3B colon cancer was negative for a genetic component like Lynch syndrome, it had spread to his lymph nodes, making chemotherapy necessary. Mark had to choose between a prolonged or intense chemo regimen and opted for the latter, enduring side effects like neuropathy and fatigue. 

Mark S. feature profile

The physical challenges Mark had to overcome and the psychological strain of accepting help reshaped his outlook on life. After his treatment for stage 3B colon cancer, he was declared to have no evidence of disease in 2021. Mark now shares his story to raise awareness of cancer and inspire others.

Watch Mark’s story to find out more about:

  • The value of trusting one’s instincts and surrounding oneself with a supportive network.
  • Developing a more mindful approach to life and health maintenance through emphasizing physical fitness and intuition.
  • The importance of self-advocacy in health.
  • The significance of maintaining low stress and cherishing every moment.

    • Name:
      • Mark S.
    • Age at Diagnosis:
      • 35
    • Diagnosis:
      • Colon Cancer
    • Staging:
      • Stage 3B
    • Symptom:
      • Intermittent cramping of varying intensity, localized on the right side
    • Treatments:
      • Surgery: colon resection
      • Chemotherapy
    Mark S.
    Mark S.
    Mark S.
    Mark S.
    Mark S.
    Mark S.
    Mark S.

    This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.


    Mark S. feature profile
    Thank you for sharing your story, Mark!

    Inspired by Mark's story?

    Share your story, too!


    More Colon Cancer Stories

     
    Jay W. stage 4 colon cancer

    Jay W., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



    Symptom: Occasional presence of blood in stool

    Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery (installation of port and liver infusion pump, colectomy, hepatectomy, liver ablation, removal of liver infusion pump)

    Kelly C. stage 4 colon cancer

    Kelly C., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



    Symptoms: Constipation, bloating, severe abdominal pain

    Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy, colostomy, hepatectomy), chemotherapy

    Marc Anthony S. Lynch syndrome

    Marc Anthony S., Lynch Syndrome and Colon Cancer, Stage 2A



    Symptoms: Blood in stool, severe constipation, persistent exhaustion, constantly feeling cold

    Treatment: Surgeries (sigmoid colectomy, lymphadenectomy)

    Crystal W. colon cancer

    Crystal W., Colon Cancer



    Symptoms: Blood in stool, intermittent severe lower abdominal pain, urinary tract infection (UTI) with strong odor, fistula

    Treatments: Surgeries (cystectomy, oophorectomy, and hysterectomy), chemotherapy

    Albita G. stage 4 colon cancer

    Albita G., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



    Symptoms: Blood in stool, pain during defecation, constant constipation, steady weight gain in the midsection despite exercising

    Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy, hepatectomy, hysterectomy), chemotherapy, radiation

    Kasey S. feature profile

    Kasey S., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



    Symptoms: Extreme abdominal cramping, mucus in stool, rectal bleeding, black stool, fatigue, weight fluctuations, skin issues (guttate psoriasis)
    Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy & salpingectomy), chemotherapy


    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.