Categories
Chemotherapy Colorectal Patient Stories Radiation Therapy Rectal Surgery Treatments

Roshonda’s Stage 4 Rectal Cancer Story

Roshonda C., Rectal Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Blood in stool, blood from rectum after intercourse, sensation of incomplete bowel movements
Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation

Roshonda’s Stage 4 Rectal Cancer Story

Roshonda shares her story as an “ostomy warrior” after she was diagnosed with rectal cancer in 2022. Her initial symptoms included blood in her stool and a sensation of incomplete bowel movements in 2021. When she first visited a doctor, she attributed the symptoms to hemorrhoids. As her symptoms progressed, including seeing blood after sexual activity and worsening discomfort, she switched to Medicaid and a new healthcare provider, eventually leading to a colonoscopy in March 2022. The procedure revealed a mass and 3 polyps in her rectum, resulting in a rectal cancer diagnosis that devastated her, as memories of her late father’s battle with cancer resurfaced. She also had a spot on her lung which brought her diagnosis to stage 4.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Following her diagnosis, Roshonda met her team of specialists and began 6 weeks of daily radiation and oral chemotherapy. Despite the challenges, including burning pain, skin darkening, and intense discomfort, she persevered. Unfortunately, she lost her longtime job, and her unemployment benefits ended shortly after her diagnosis, complicating her financial situation. Thankfully, her mother and grandmother provided support, covering bills and easing some of the burden.

Despite the intense treatment, Roshonda’s tumor did not initially shrink enough. Her oncologist advised further treatment with intravenous chemotherapy, which involved 8 sessions over 4 months. These sessions were grueling, leaving her nauseated and exhausted. Reflecting on the mental toll, Roshonda stresses the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, which she believes helps many cancer patients manage their journey.

Facing surgery to remove her rectum and anus due to the tumor’s location, Roshonda had to decide between keeping the anal area, risking potential recurrence, or opting for a complete removal with a lifelong colostomy bag. She chose the latter, enduring significant pain after the procedure, with limited mobility and initial difficulty sitting.

Roshonda joined an online ostomy support group before surgery, learning from others’ experiences and finding comfort in a community of people facing similar challenges. This network has been invaluable, especially since she is the only one in her family with an ostomy bag.

Sharing her rectal cancer journey on TikTok and Facebook, Roshonda aims to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, particularly within the Black community, which faces higher incidence rates. She encourages early screenings and prompt medical attention for symptoms. Gospel music and faith have helped her find peace, especially a song that resonated deeply with her, helping her surrender her worries before surgery.

Adjusting to life with a colostomy bag, Roshonda emphasizes listening to her body and finding what works best for her. Though the journey has been painful and challenging, she remains grateful for her support network, faith, and the resilience she’s developed throughout her battle.


  • Name:
    • Roshonda C.
  • Age at Diagnosis:
    • 37
  • Diagnosis:
    • Rectal cancer
  • Staging:
    • Stage 4
  • Initial Symptoms:
    • Blood in stool
    • Blood from rectum after intercourse
    • Sensation of incomplete bowel movements
  • Treatment:
    • Chemotherapy
    • Surgery
    • Radiation

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


Thank you for sharing your story, Roshonda!

Inspired by Roshonda's story?

Share your story, too!


Related Cancer Stories

More Rectal Cancer Stories
Denelle C. stage 3B rectal cancer

Denelle C., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3B



Symptoms: Irregular bowel movements, frequent rectal bleeding, sensation of incomplete evacuation

Treatment: Chemoradiation (oral chemotherapy and radiation therapy)

Scott M., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3



Initial Symptoms: Blood in stool
Treatment: Chemotherapy, surgery (ileostomy), radiation

Roshonda C., Rectal Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Blood in stool, blood from rectum after intercourse, sensation of incomplete bowel movements
Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation
Paul K. feature profile

Paul K., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3



Symptoms: Frequent bowel movements, loose stools, blood spotting in stool
Treatments: Chemotherapy (CAPOX), radiation, upcoming surgery (colon resection)


Jessenia L., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3



Symptoms: Constipation, belatedness, bleeding after using the toilet

Treatment: Chemotherapy (including oral chemotherapy), surgery (full hysterectomy), radiation
Jelena shares her rectal cancer story

Jelena T., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 3



Symptoms: Blood in stool, change in gas
Treatment: Chemotherapy, radiation, surgery
Load More

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.