Tag: early onset CRC

Colon Cancer at 36: How Crystal Faced Diagnosis and Found Connection

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date May 2, 2025
No Comments on Colon Cancer at 36: How Crystal Faced Diagnosis and Found Connection

May 2, 2025

Colon Cancer at 36: How Crystal Faced Diagnosis and Found Connection

Crystal’s account is a heartfelt narrative about confronting colon cancer, grappling with mental health, and letting in support.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

For years, Crystal noticed blood in her stool, but dismissed it as hemorrhoids. Fast forward to 2022, when symptoms she couldn’t shrug off, including excruciating abdominal pain and recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs), finally pushed her to seek medical help. A CT scan revealed something alarming — an abnormal mass intruding into her bladder. After several tests, the diagnosis was confirmed: colon cancer. The news, while devastating, wasn’t entirely shocking to Crystal, who had long neglected her health habits. Yet, the emotional weight of hearing, “You’ve got cancer,” hits differently, no matter how prepared one thinks one might be.

Getting on with life after a colon cancer diagnosis was far from easy. Crystal underwent surgeries to remove her bladder, right ovary, and uterus. She also endured the placement of both colostomy and urostomy bags. Adjusting to life afterward was daunting. The urostomy bag, in particular, brought anxiety about potential leaks in public, often triggering feelings of vulnerability and self-consciousness. However, Crystal realized that survival and quality of life trumped these fears.

Crystal’s mental health took significant hits throughout her experience with colon cancer, which weighed heavily on her. But it was during these dark times that she discovered the strength of her support system. Friends showed up, both emotionally and physically, breaking through the walls she had built around herself for years. She realized that accepting help wasn’t a sign of weakness but a testament to the deep connections she had with her loved ones.

Crystal’s story is a beacon for others facing similar challenges. She shares that while living with an ostomy bag can be tough, it’s not the end — it’s just another chapter. Her advice? Let people in, lean on your support system, and never underestimate the power of sharing your story.

Take a look at Crystal’s video to get into:

How she found strength after her devastating colon cancer diagnosis.
Why accepting help changed Crystal’s mental health for the better.
Living with a urostomy bag: her real talk on the challenges and triumphs.
The signs Crystal missed — could you recognize them?
From isolation to connection: How colon cancer reshaped her relationships.

Name:
- Crystal W.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 36
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Symptoms:
- Blood in stool
- Intermittent severe lower abdominal pain
- Urinary tract infection (UTI) with strong odor
- Fistula
Treatments:
- Surgeries: cystectomy, oophorectomy, hysterectomy
- Chemotherapy

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, Crystal!

Inspired by Crystal's story?

Share your story, too!

Chloe’s Stage 3 Colon Cancer Story: It Started with Bloating

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 3, 2025
No Comments on Chloe’s Stage 3 Colon Cancer Story: It Started with Bloating

April 3, 2025

Living Boldly After Stage 3 Colon Cancer: Chloe’s Empowering Message

In early 2024, Chloe was unexpectedly diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer (adenocarcinoma of the colon) after suffering from symptoms of bloating and other stomach issues. Later on she began to experience weight loss, fatigue, lack of appetite, and abdominal swelling. However, these symptoms were dismissed as effects of her pre-existing anemia. She regularly consulted her general practitioner throughout December to have tests conducted. They only revealed minor infections but didn’t uncover the underlying issue. Moreover, her health continued to worsen.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Chloe paid a visit to the local infirmary, where doctors subsequently discovered and were concerned about high ketone levels in her urine. However, she was still treated for gastroenteritis. Her symptoms persisted, leading her mother to realize that her condition was far more severe than everyone thought and insist on a hospital visit. Significantly, a CT scan revealed a mass in her large bowel and multiple perforations. Doctors accordingly performed emergency surgery, and Chloe woke up afterward with a stoma bag, an unexpected and significant adjustment for her.

The diagnosis was shocking: Chloe’s condition was stage 3 colon cancer. Furthermore, these findings were exacerbated by a rare genetic disorder, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which had gone undetected until that point. This gene caused polyps to clump together and form a large tumor. Following her surgery, Chloe subsequently underwent four rounds of chemotherapy over three months, with sessions involving both IV and oral forms of treatment. Thankfully, post-treatment scans showed no remaining cancer cells. By June 2024, Chloe was finally declared in remission.

Emotionally, Chloe found the process challenging. She consequently had to grapple with the stigma of having cancer as a young individual and adjust to life with a stoma. She concurrently navigated the mental health impacts of her stage 3 colon cancer and bloating, including PTSD and anxiety, around hospitals through counseling and support from loved ones.

Watch Chloe’s video to learn more about:

How to embrace a bolder outlook on life and seize opportunities that you may once have feared.
The importance of listening to your body.
Why it’s crucial for you to persist with medical inquiries if you suspect stage 3 colon cancer and bloating.
How to avoid letting feelings of embarrassment stop you from seeking help.

Name:
- Chloe W.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 25
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer (Adenocarcinoma of the Colon)
Staging:
- Stage 3
Symptoms:
- Severe abdominal bloating due to stage 3 colon cancer
- Weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- High ketone levels in urine
Treatments:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Chloe!

Inspired by Chloe's story?

Share your story, too!

Early Testing Could Have Changed My Colorectal Cancer Story—Don’t Ignore the Signs

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date January 29, 2025
No Comments on Early Testing Could Have Changed My Colorectal Cancer Story—Don’t Ignore the Signs

January 29, 2025

Early Testing Could Have Changed My Colorectal Cancer Story—Don’t Ignore the Signs

Nicola is a mother and anesthetic technician who loves traveling and spending time with her dogs, cat, and 2 children. In 2020, doctors diagnosed her with colorectal cancer. By the end of 2021, she learned that her colorectal cancer had become stage 4 and had metastasized to her brain. After undergoing a craniotomy, she has been in remission for 9 months.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Initially, Nicola experienced rectal bleeding. Doctors thought it was nothing more than hemorrhoids, but eventually, they conducted a colonoscopy. The surgeon found a 4-cm tumor and performed surgery just before Christmas, and also discovered that 4 of her lymph nodes tested positive for cancer cells. She then underwent adjuvant chemotherapy, which is treatment to keep cancer from returning.

With no significant family history of cancer, although her father also had bowel cancer, Nicola’s case involved a non-BRAF, wild-type adenocarcinoma. Her chemotherapy initially made her very sick, leading to weight loss and hospitalization. Eventually, she switched treatments and completed 5 rounds before doctors declared her NED (No Evidence of Disease) for her stage 4 colorectal cancer.

Months later, Nicola began to experience symptoms such as profound migraines and vision changes. These led to the discovery of a large brain tumor; her original cancer had metastasized to her brain. She promptly underwent a craniotomy, which was deemed successful. Afterward, she received targeted radiation therapy, which thankfully did not significantly affect her vision.

Nicola remains under high-risk monitoring. She advocates for personal vigilance and early testing, sharing that she might have pushed for a colonoscopy sooner despite her age, had she known that younger people can get colorectal cancer. Now, she focuses on being present with her family and friends, and cherishes each day with gratitude.

Name:
- Nicola H.
Diagnosis:
- Colorectal cancer 2020
- brain cancer
Staging:
- Initial stage 3 in 2020
- Metastasized to her brain in 2021 (stage 4)
Initial Symptoms:
- Bleeding, pain (Colorectal cancer)
- Focal migraines (Brain cancer)
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy (Colorectal cancer)
- Radiation (Brain cancer)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Nicola!

Inspired by Nicola's story?

Share your story, too!

Rashawn’s Stage 1 Colorectal Cancer Story

Rashawn, a mother of 4 from Augusta, GA, is a 10-year stage 1 colorectal cancer survivor who celebrates her journey to health each year on April 28. Despite initial struggles, she maintains a 4.0 GPA while pursuing middle grade education after years away from school.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Rashawn’s cancer story began in 2014, when persistent fatigue and blood in her stool led her to seek medical attention. A colonoscopy revealed a golf-ball-sized mass in her colon, which was later confirmed as cancer. Determined to attend her son’s graduation, Rashawn underwent surgery within weeks, during which doctors removed a significant portion of her colon as well as a large number of lymph nodes. Recovery was challenging but marked by resilience, with support from her family.

Rashawn faced emotional and mental challenges post-diagnosis of stage 1 colorectal cancer, including confusion, fear, anger, being diagnosed with a different kind of cancer, and a lack of readily available resources for colon cancer patients. The absence of support groups and tailored education at the time left her feeling isolated. Over time, she developed strength through self-advocacy, faith, and a desire to help others. Rashawn emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s body and seeking prompt medical attention when something feels off, as delayed action can have severe consequences.

Today, Rashawn continues to manage her health vigilantly, undergoing regular screenings and addressing any concerns immediately. She attributes her survival to her proactive approach and strong support system, which included her mother, a breast cancer survivor, and her extended family. Despite lingering anxiety about recurrence, Rashawn finds purpose in sharing her story to raise awareness about colon cancer and empower others to prioritize their health.

Rashawn’s recovery journey also involved adapting to physical changes, such as altered taste buds and dietary habits. While challenges linger, she finds joy in helping others and living a life of gratitude. Rashawn practices her faith daily, expressing thanks and paying her blessings forward by assisting others. Her transformation into her best self over the last decade exemplifies resilience, faith, and purpose.

Rashawn advises others to trust their instincts, know their bodies, and seek timely medical care. By doing so, she believes more lives can be saved, and individuals can live fuller lives despite adversity.

Name:
- Rashawn M.
Diagnosis:
- Colorectal cancer
Staging:
- Stage 1
Age at Diagnosis:
- 37
Initial Symptoms:
- Extreme fatigue
- Blood in stool
Treatment:
- Surgery

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, Rashawn!

Inspired by Rashawn's story?

Share your story, too!

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, Emily!

Inspired by Emily's story?

Share your story, too!

Name:
- Rachael M.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 33
Diagnosis:
- Colorectal cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Loss of sense of taste and smell
- Loss of appetite and vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Bloating
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Treatment:
- Surgery (total hysterectomy, sigmoid colon removed, tumor removed in colon, stoma configuration, port placement)
- Chemotherapy

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, Rachael!

Inspired by Rachael's story?

Share your story, too!

Jennifer’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Jennifer was diagnosed with early onset colon cancer in 2017 (stage 3) at the age of 23, which progressed to stage 4 in 2020. Her diagnosis came after an iron deficiency flagged by her endocrinologist led to further testing and a colonoscopy revealing a 5 cm tumor. Before her diagnosis, she experienced scattered symptoms including weight loss, coughing, vomiting, sciatica pain, and persistent fatigue, which were initially attributed to depression, stress, and other conditions.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Treatment began with a colectomy in December 2017, followed by six months of FOLFOX chemotherapy. Despite an initial remission, Jennifer’s cancer returned in her lungs in 2020, discovered during post-stroke scans after a medical complication left her blind in one eye. Subsequent treatments included FOLFIRI chemotherapy, cetuximab immunotherapy, and two lung wedge resections to remove nodules.

Jennifer candidly discusses the challenges of navigating complex medical care that came with her early onset colon cancer diagnosis, including periods of insufficient oncology support, medical advocacy struggles, and emotional tolls. She credits her recovery to persistence, family support, and pushing for surgeries against her oncologist’s preference for extended chemotherapy. A wake-up call from her health crises led her to improve her lifestyle, take control of her medical care, and stay deeply involved in her treatment plans.

Reflecting on her experiences, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself, accepting past circumstances, and maintaining a focus on the present. Her message to others is clear: trust your medical team but actively participate in decisions, avoid panic over statistics, and focus on actionable steps toward treatment and recovery.

Name: Jennifer T.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 23
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 3 (2017)
- Stage 4 (2020)
Symptoms:
- Weight loss
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Sciatica pain
- Fatigue
Treatments:
- Surgeries: colectomy, lung wedge resection on both lungs
- Chemotherapy: FOLFOX, FOLFIRI
- Immunotherapy: cetuximab

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, Jennifer!

Inspired by Jennifer's story?

Share your story, too!

Roshonda’s Stage 4 Rectal Cancer Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date January 5, 2025
No Comments on Roshonda’s Stage 4 Rectal Cancer Story

January 5, 2025

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!

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, Shayla!

Inspired by Shayla's story?

Share your story, too!

Kate’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Diagnosis Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date December 11, 2024
No Comments on Kate’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Diagnosis Story

December 11, 2024

Kate’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Kate, a 36-year-old mother of 2 who enjoys baking, cooking, and snowboarding, shares her journey with stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis. Her path began with a bowel obstruction leading to hospitalization, followed by scans and a biopsy that confirmed cancer in July 2024. Reflecting on her symptoms—bloating, fatigue, severe cramps—she regrets attributing them to motherhood or hormonal changes and stresses the importance of addressing persistent health issues early.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Kate describes the emotional impact of her stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis as both expected and surreal. Communicating with her young children and family required straightforward, factual discussions to manage their fears and understanding. She educated her children about cancer in simple terms and reassured her family with facts from her oncologists, focusing on the hope provided by her age and health.

Treatment decisions revolved around addressing metastasis. Doctors prioritized chemotherapy over surgery to prevent further spread. Kate began chemotherapy in August 2024 and recently completed her 7th round, with promising results. Scans reveal shrinking tumors and no new metastasis, but the journey involves significant physical and emotional challenges. Side effects like fatigue, nausea, and allergic reactions require her to balance medications, while the treatment’s toll affects her parenting and overall well-being.

Despite setbacks, Kate draws strength from her children, striving to be present and hopeful for them. She acknowledges moments of mental fog and emotional numbness but believes that these effects will pass. Therapy and anti-anxiety medications help her navigate the overwhelming experience, allowing her to sleep and avoid panic attacks.

Kate’s medical team emphasizes her strong physical health and determination as assets in her fight. The instilled hope drives her forward, propelling her to focus on survival and recovery. She views hope as integral to enduring treatment and planning for the future.

Through her experience, Kate highlights the unpredictability of cancer, even for those who live healthily. She urges others to prioritize their health, advocating for awareness of symptoms and proactive conversations with doctors. Her advice to newly diagnosed individuals centers on using facts to ground themselves, staying informed, and resisting the urge to let cancer define them. By holding onto facts and hope, she believes individuals can find the strength to face their diagnosis and remain resilient.

Kate’s story underscores the value of early detection, mental resilience, and the support of loved ones. Her commitment to her children and belief in her strength reflect her unwavering fight against cancer and her determination to reclaim her life.

Name:
- Kate J.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 35
Diagnosis:
- Colon cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Bowel obstruction
- Bloating
- Exhaustion
- Severe cramps and period pain
Treatments:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy