Categories
Chemotherapy Colon Colorectal dexamethasone Hemicolectomy Metastatic Patient Stories Steroids Surgery Treatments

Jessica’s Stage 4 BRAF Mutation Colon Cancer Story

Jessica’s Stage 4 BRAF Mutation Colon Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Jessica T. feature profile

Jessica was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at 26. Four months before her diagnosis, she began experiencing intense episodes of stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, which would last for 48 hours. She initially thought she had a gluten intolerance and visited emergency doctors several times. They misdiagnosed her with gastroenteritis and prescribed ineffective medication

Frustrated by the recurring symptoms, Jessica pushed for blood tests, suspecting something more serious. During a particularly severe episode of stomach cramps, she called an ambulance and was taken to the hospital. Blood tests revealed that she was severely anemic, requiring multiple blood transfusions. A subsequent CT scan suggested the presence of a tumor in her colon. Despite some reluctance from doctors to comment on the findings, a colonoscopy confirmed the diagnosis.

Jessica described the colonoscopy as a traumatic experience since she was awake during the procedure and could sense something was wrong. Afterward, she was told she had a tumor blocking part of her colon, causing her digestive issues. Although it wasn’t immediately confirmed as cancerous, Jessica underwent surgery to remove half of her colon (a hemicolectomy), during which 36 lymph nodes were tested. The results showed that the cancer had spread, confirming stage 4 colon cancer.

Jessica faced a roller coaster of emotions when told she had the BRAF genetic mutation, which is resistant to chemotherapy. However, a post-surgical PET scan revealed no remaining cancer in her body, which was a miracle. Despite the initial bleak prognosis, she completed six months of chemotherapy and has been in remission since November 2022.

Throughout chemotherapy, Jessica experienced manageable side effects, including fatigue and neuropathy. Mentally, she remained optimistic, having come to terms with living a fulfilling life regardless of her prognosis. Her treatment gave her a new perspective on life, changing her outlook on relationships and personal boundaries. She acknowledged grieving her old self but ultimately embraced her transformed identity.

Jessica’s message to others is that they are stronger than they realize. She encourages people to see difficult experiences as temporary and reminds them that life can look vastly different in a year, offering opportunities for growth and new perspectives.


  • Name: Jessica T.
  • Diagnosis:
    • Colon Cancer
  • Staging:
    • Stage 4
  • Mutation:
    • BRAF
  • Symptoms:
    • Severe stomach cramps
    • Diarrhea
    • Vomiting
    • Anemia (discovered later)
  • Treatments:
    • Surgery: hemicolectomy (removal of half the colon)
    • Chemotherapy
Jessica T.
Jessica T.
Jessica T.
Jessica T.
Jessica T.
Jessica T.
Jessica T.

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


Jessica T. feature profile
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More Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Stories

 
Raquel A. feature profile

Raquel A., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Frequent bowel movements, pin-thin stools, mild red blood in stool
Treatment: Chemotherapy

Steve S., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Blood in stool, changes in bowel habits, feeling gassy and bloated

Treatments: Surgery, chemotherapy, monoclonal antibody, liver transplant
Jessica T. feature profile

Jessica T., BRAF Mutation Colon Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, anemia (discovered later)

Treatments: Surgery (hemicolectomy), chemotherapy

Jennifer T. feature profile

Jennifer T., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Weight loss, coughing, vomiting, sciatica pain, fatigue

Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy, lung wedge resection on both lungs), chemotherapy, immunotherapy
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


Categories
Colectomy Colon Colorectal Hemicolectomy Patient Stories Surgery Treatments

Maddee’s Stage 2 Colon Cancer Story

Maddee’s Stage 2 Colon Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Maddee M. feature profile

Maddee was diagnosed with stage 2 colon cancer in February 2023, following months of unusual symptoms that she initially attributed to other causes. She began experiencing significant fatigue and intermittent abdominal pain in December 2022, which she dismissed due to her active lifestyle. The symptoms escalated, including a burning sensation in her stomach, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Despite seeking medical advice, her condition was not immediately diagnosed, as initial assessments from urgent care and her gynecologist did not reveal the underlying issue.

The turning point came when a naturopath, who was evaluating her hormone levels, discovered she was severely anemic and suspected a slow internal bleed. This led to an expedited colonoscopy in February 2023, where a large tumor was discovered, too big for the scope to navigate. The doctor suspected Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition associated with a higher risk of colon cancer, especially given Madeline’s family history—her father had passed away from pancreatic cancer at the age of 47. Subsequent tests confirmed the presence of the tumor but fortunately showed that the cancer had not spread beyond the colon.

Surgery was scheduled quickly, during which about a foot of Maddee’s colon and 40 lymph nodes were removed. The procedure, though more invasive than initially expected due to the tumor’s size, was successful. Post-surgery, Maddee’s recovery was challenging, involving significant pain and the need for a blood transfusion. Despite some setbacks, including a slow return to physical activity, her resilience and proactive attitude helped her navigate these difficulties.

Maddee chose not to undergo chemotherapy, a decision influenced by her desire to avoid the side effects and protect her reproductive health. Her oncologist supported her choice, given that the cancer had not spread to her lymph nodes. She remains vigilant, undergoing regular blood tests and scans to monitor her health, and is aware of the potential for cancer recurrence due to her Lynch syndrome diagnosis.

Mentally, the experience has been taxing, and Maddee has relied on therapy to help manage the stress and anxiety associated with her diagnosis and recovery. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, listening to one’s body, and enjoying life despite the uncertainties that come with a cancer diagnosis. Participating in clinical trials, Madeline hopes her experience will contribute to better understanding and treatments for younger colon cancer patients.


  • Name: Maddee M.
  • Age at Diagnosis:
    • 35
  • Diagnosis:
    • Colon Cancer
  • Staging:
    • Stage 2 (borderline stage 3)
  • Symptoms:
    • Severe fatigue
    • Burning sensation in the stomach
    • Intermittent lower right abdominal pain
    • Dizziness
    • Shortness of breath
    • Difficulty walking up inclines
    • Anemia
  • Treatment:
    • Surgery: hemicolectomy & lymphadenectomy
Maddee M.
Maddee M.
Maddee M.
Maddee M.

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


Maddee M. feature profile
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More Colon Cancer Stories

 

Tamara G., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



Symptom: None; bloodwork revealed severe anemia which touched off the diagnostic process
Treatments: Chemotherapy, immunotherapy
Katie I. feature profile

Katie I., Colon Cancer, Stage 3B



Symptoms: Extreme fatigue, shortness of breath heartburn

Treatments: Surgery (partial colectomy/laparoscopic colon resection), chemotherapy (infusion with oral medication)

Emily K., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



Initial Symptoms: Abdominal pain, blood in stool

Treatment: Surgery, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, clinical trials

Rachael M., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4



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
Jennifer T. feature profile

Jennifer T., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Weight loss, coughing, vomiting, sciatica pain, fatigue

Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy, lung wedge resection on both lungs), chemotherapy, immunotherapy

Ken S., Colon Cancer, Stage 4



Initial Symptoms: Intermittent appearance of blood in stool; occasional diarrhea; increase in bowel movement frequency; fevers and chills; fatigue; weight loss
Treatment: Chemotherapy, surgery

Categories
Chemotherapy Colorectal Hysterectomy Patient Stories Radiation Therapy Rectal Surgery Treatments

Jessenia’s Stage 3 Rectal Cancer Story

Jessenia’s Stage 3 Rectal Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Jessenia, a 35-year-old mother from New Jersey, shares her emotional journey of being diagnosed with and treated for stage 3 rectal cancer, a type of colorectal cancer.

Jessenia’s story begins when she was pregnant with her son. One day, after noticing blood after using the toilet, she went for a checkup and the doctor initially diagnosed her with hemorrhoids. However, persistent pain and symptoms led her to seek further medical help, culminating in a visit to the ER. Although an unempathetic doctor brushed her off, she was eventually diagnosed with rectal cancer.

Jessenia describes her shock at the diagnosis and the fear that followed, especially as she had recently lost a loved one to cancer. Despite these fears, she leaned on the support of her husband, who never left her side through the grueling treatment process, which included 6 weeks of radiation and oral chemotherapy. The treatment left her physically weakened, causing her to drop a considerable amount of weight and experience severe side effects like nausea.

Faced with the possibility of living with a colostomy bag for life, Jessenia initially resisted surgery, opting instead for aggressive chemotherapy and radiation. Unfortunately, the tumor only shrank slightly, and surgery became necessary. She ultimately had a temporary colostomy bag and struggled emotionally with this new reality. Despite her discomfort and initial reluctance to manage the bag, her husband stepped up, learning how to care for it and providing her with unwavering support.

Throughout her journey, Jessenia dealt with physical and emotional pain, from dealing with the side effects of her treatments to undergoing a full hysterectomy to reduce the risk of the cancer spreading. The loss of her reproductive organs was difficult to accept, especially as she only had one child. However, she and her husband made peace with the situation, focusing on their love for their son.

Jessenia learned to adapt, even eventually embrace life with her temporary colostomy bag, and resumed her daily activities. She reflects on her experience, offering advice to others facing health challenges: accept your situation, stay positive, and avoid stress. Her strength and determination helped her through the darkest times, and she emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system.

In the end, Jessenia shares her realization that one should live one’s life fully, regardless of one’s circumstances. She traveled and made memories throughout her cancer journey, determined to spread awareness and inspire others to get checked for symptoms. Her message is clear: don’t let fear stop you from living, and always seek help when something feels wrong.


  • Name:
    • Jessenia L.
  • Age at Diagnosis:
    • 35
  • Diagnosis:
    • Rectal cancer
  • Staging:
    • Stage 3
  • Initial Symptoms:
    • Constipation
    • Bloatedness
    • Bleeding after using the toilet
  • Treatment:
    • Chemotherapy (including oral chemotherapy)
    • Surgery (full hysterectomy)
    • 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, Jessenia!

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Related Stories

Other Rectal Cancer Stories

Joanna H., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3



Symptoms: Rectal bleeding, bloating, stomach aches



Treatments: Chemotherapy (FOLFOX), radiation
Catherine

Catherine P., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3



Symptoms: Rectal bleeding, constipation, bloating
Treatments: Chemotherapy (Xeloda, CAPOX), radiation, surgery (tumor resection)

Jackie S., Rectal Adenocarcinoma, Stage 3B/4, Lynch Syndrome



Symptoms: Blood in stool, constipation

Treatments: Chemotherapy (oxaliplatin & 5FU), radiation, surgeries (rectal resection, total hysterectomy, ileostomy), immunotherapy
Maria

Maria A., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3C



Symptoms: Fatigue, weight loss, fast heart rate, bladder infection

Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, surgery (tumor removal)

Justine L., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3B/4



Symptoms: Increasing bowel movements (up to 20 a day), some rectal bleeding

Treatments: Chemoradiation (capecitabine , FOLFOX), surgery (colectomy), SBRT radiation, cancer ablation, Y90 (radioembolization)
Categories
Adriamycin (doxorubicin) Breast Cancer Chemotherapy Colon Colorectal Doxil (doxorubicin) Eloxatin (oxaliplatin) Hormone Therapies Patient Stories Radiation Therapy Surgery Taxol (paclitaxel) Treatments Xeloda (capecitabine)

Lauren’s Stage 4 Breast and Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Lauren’s Stage 4 Breast and Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Lauren, from Houston, Texas, is living with stage 4 breast cancer and stage 4 colon cancer. Her journey began in 2014 when, after breastfeeding her second child, she discovered a lump in her breast. As her doctor initially dismissed it as fibroadenoma, Lauren did not undergo further testing. 2 years later, she developed pains in her breast and noticed that her left nipple looked strange, and upon further examination, doctors diagnosed her with stage 3 breast cancer. She underwent chemotherapy, a mastectomy, and radiation, followed by hormone therapy for several years.

In 2021, Lauren began experiencing stomach pains and noticed blood in her stool. Following a colonoscopy, she was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer after doctors discovered a cancerous lymph node. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy but struggled with side effects. Lauren also began to explore alternative treatments like high-dose intravenous vitamin C and fasting, inspired by research on treating KRAS mutation cancers, which are known to be particularly aggressive and difficult to treat.

In 2022, after experiencing further stomach pain, a PET scan revealed that the cancer had spread to Lauren’s abdominal lining and spine. Her oncologist gave her a terminal prognosis, estimating that she had around 10 months left to live. Desperate, Lauren intensified her vitamin C treatments, fasting, and other therapies. Remarkably, by December of that year, her PET scan showed no evidence of disease, although her doctor cautioned her to remain vigilant.

Lauren’s journey took another turn when a biopsy revealed that her spinal cancer was not colon cancer but a recurrence of her breast cancer, which had resurfaced and spread while her immune system was weakened. Although she has had to deal with recurring spots of cancer in her spine, Lauren has successfully managed her colon cancer, with her tumor markers remaining low. She credits her alternative treatments, alongside traditional therapies, for keeping her cancer at bay.

Now, Lauren undergoes PET scans every 3 months to monitor her condition. While managing cancer has become part of her daily life, especially with gastrointestinal side effects from her colon surgery, she remains proactive in her treatment and hopeful for the future. Despite the challenges, Lauren emphasizes the importance of staying informed, advocating for oneself, and maintaining hope, especially for those dealing with KRAS mutation cancers.


  • Name:
    • Lauren B.
  • Age at Diagnosis:
    • 31
  • Diagnosis:
    • Breast cancer
    • Colon cancer
  • Staging:
    • Stage 4 for both
  • Initial Symptoms:
    • Lump in left breast that grew
    • Strange appearance of nipple
  • Treatment:
    • Surgery (radical left mastectomy, lymph node removal; removal of part of colon and appendix)
    • Chemotherapy (Doxorubicin and Taxol; Oxaliplatin and Xeloda)
    • Radiation therapy
    • Hormone therapy
    • Complementary treatments (fasting, high-dose intravenous Vitamin C)

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, Lauren!

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Related Cancer Stories

More Breast Cancer Stories
Maggie C. feature profile

Maggie C., Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, Stage 4 (Metastatic), PD-L1+



Symptoms: Bruising sensation in the breast, soft lump

Treatments: Chemotherapy, clinical trial (antibody-drug conjugate and immunotherapy)
Nina M. feature profile

Nina M., Metastatic Breast Cancer



Symptoms: Hardening under the armpit, lump & dimpling in the left breast

Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery (lumpectomy), radiotherapy, hormone-blocking medication, targeted therapy
Sherrie shares her stage 4 metastatic breast cancer story
Sherri O., Metastatic Breast Cancer, HER2+ & Colon Cancer, Stage 3
Symptoms: Shortness of breath, lump under armpit, not feeling herself
Treatments: Chemotherapy, Transfusions
April D.

April D., Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, Stage 4 (Metastatic), BRCA1+



Symptom: Four lumps on the side of the left breast

Treatments: Chemotherapy (carboplatin, paclitaxel doxorubicin, surgery (double mastectomy), radiation (proton therapy), PARP inhibitors
Brittney shares her stage 4 breast cancer story
Brittney B., Metastatic Breast Cancer
Symptoms: Lump in the right breast, inverted nipple

Treatments: Surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation

Categories
Chemotherapy Colorectal CRC External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) FOLFOX (folinic acid, fluorouracil, oxaliplatin) Patient Stories Radiation Therapy Surgery Treatments

Tracy’s Stage 2B Colorectal Cancer Story

Tracy’s Stage 2B Colorectal Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Tracy R. feature profile

Tracy was diagnosed with stage 2B colorectal cancer at 41. A former special education teacher turned personal trainer and nutrition coach, Tracy has long been passionate about promoting a whole-food, toxin-free lifestyle. Despite her healthy habits, she began experiencing troubling symptoms related to her digestive system that were dismissed by multiple doctors over the years.

Tracy’s health issues began in her 20s when she was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), leading to frequent trips to the emergency room. Despite changing her diet and lifestyle, her symptoms persisted, including bloating, inflammation, and intermittent bleeding. During a vacation in 2014, Tracy saw blood in the toilet, prompting her to seek further medical evaluation. Initially attributing her symptoms to a hemorrhoid, her OB/GYN prescribed suppositories, which provided only temporary relief.

Concerned by the recurrent symptoms, Tracy eventually consulted a gastrointestinal specialist who recommended a colonoscopy. The procedure revealed a polyp near the anal verge, and further tests confirmed it was malignant. Although not initially alarmed, Tracy soon realized the gravity of her situation as she was referred to a colorectal surgeon.

The news was tough—her cancer was located so low in the rectum that surgery would likely require a permanent colostomy bag. Tracy sought multiple opinions, hoping for a different outcome, but each doctor confirmed the same treatment plan: neoadjuvant chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Her optimism was tested, but a compassionate oncology team helped her navigate the emotional and physical challenges ahead.

Tracy’s treatment began with 28 days of chemotherapy and radiation. She opted for oral chemotherapy (Xeloda), hoping it would feel less invasive, but the side effects quickly took a toll. By the third week of radiation, she experienced severe pain, dehydration, and burning sensations, leading to hospitalization. Despite her resistance to the idea of surgery, the worsening symptoms and the results of her post-radiation colonoscopy convinced her to proceed.

In December 2015, Tracy underwent surgery, resulting in a colostomy. Although she initially struggled to accept her new reality, including the emotional impact of living with a colostomy bag, she found strength through her faith and the support of her husband and doctors. Post-surgery, Tracy faced additional chemotherapy, but her body reacted severely and she was eventually advised to stop treatment due to complications.

Through it all, Tracy wrestled with feelings of shame and guilt, questioning whether her past choices led to her diagnosis. However, she ultimately embraced her situation, using it as an opportunity to advocate for self-awareness and early detection, particularly through colonoscopies. Tracy’s message is clear: listen to your body, advocate for your health, and turn pain into purpose by helping others.


  • Name: Tracy R.
  • Age at Diagnosis:
    • 41
  • Diagnosis:
    • Colorectal Cancer
  • Staging:
    • Stage 2B
  • Symptoms:
    • Bloating and inflammation
    • Heaviness in the rectum
    • Intermittent rectal bleeding
    • Fatigue
  • Treatments:
    • Chemotherapy
    • Radiation
    • Surgery
Tracy R.
Tracy R.
Tracy R.
Tracy R.
Tracy R.
Tracy R.
Tracy R.

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


Tracy R. feature profile
Thank you for sharing your story, Tracy!

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More Colorectal Cancer Stories


Andrea P., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 3


Symptoms: Frequent blood in stool, lower back pain, rectal pain

Treatments: Chemotherapy (5-FU), radiation, surgery
Raquel A. feature profile

Raquel A., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Frequent bowel movements, pin-thin stools, mild red blood in stool
Treatment: Chemotherapy
Jason shares his colorectal cancer story

Jason R., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Blood in stool, diarrhea, tenesmus, feeling run down
Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, HAI pump
Kelly shares her colorectal cancer story
Kelly S., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 3 Symptoms: Constipation, blood in stool, abnormal-smelling stool, fluctuating appetite, weight lossTreatment: Dostarlimab
Michelle C. feature profile

Michelle C., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4



Symptoms: Felt like either a UTI or yeast infection
Treatment: Chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel), surgery (hysterectomy), and radiation
Allison

Allison R., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 2C



Symptoms: Extreme fatigue, unexplained weight loss, blood in stool, "blockage" feeling after eating
Treatment: Concurrent adjuvant (oral) chemotherapy + radiation, colectomy, oral chemotherapy