A 44-Year-Old’s Ongoing Battle, Community Support, and Advocacy for Early Detection

A 44-year-old mother of two, business owner, and avid runner began noticing intermittent blood in her stool as early as August 2019. Initially attributing the issue to stress and changes in diet, she postponed a recommended gastroenterology referral. By January 2020, the symptoms grew more concerning, prompting a consultation with a gastroenterologist, Dr. King, who scheduled a colonoscopy for early April. However, the COVID-19 shutdown nearly delayed testing until June 15, which seemed too long given the escalating severity of symptoms.

Through persistent advocacy, she secured an urgent colonoscopy on April 24. The procedure revealed a mass, and scans confirmed stage IV colorectal cancer. Despite the shock, she immediately sought information on colorectal cancer (CRC), changed to a plant-based diet, embraced meditation and prayer, and joined a drug trial combining FOLFOX chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments. After six months, imaging showed a 50% reduction in her tumors, allowing for the first part of a planned two-stage resection. Unfortunately, liver damage from chemotherapy prevented the second procedure. Future plans include Y-90 treatment and additional radiation to address the primary rectal tumor.

Determined to transform her experience into advocacy, she launched a Facebook support group, frequently updating followers with progress reports and ending each post with a rhyming reminder to schedule a colonoscopy. She then discovered the “Get Your Rear in Gear” event, setting a fundraising goal of $1,700 to symbolize the 17% five-year survival chance she was given. With widespread community support, her efforts raised $9,965, far surpassing the original target. Along the way, a local yoga studio hosted a donation-based class, and friends participated by biking, walking, or practicing yoga on her team’s behalf.

Through unwavering determination, lifestyle changes, and a strong support network, this patient continues to challenge a stage IV diagnosis while bringing awareness to the importance of timely screenings and early detection.