Colorectal Cancer: Allison's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Allison Rosen was 32 when concerning symptoms led her doctor to refer her to a gastroenterologist. An X-ray showed a blockage, and a colonoscopy confirmed that a 13-centimeter tumor in her colon was causing it. She was diagnosed with early-onset colorectal cancer and underwent surgery, including creation of a temporary ileostomy and ostomy bag.

At first, Allison strongly wanted the ileostomy to be temporary because she worried that a permanent bag would limit her life. After reversal surgery, however, she struggled with frequent bowel movements whenever she ate or drank. Travel became difficult, and the loss of control caused significant anxiety and stress. She eventually returned to an ileostomy and found that it gave her much more freedom. She began traveling widely again, including surfing, rock climbing, and climbing Table Mountain in Africa.

Recovery also changed Allison’s professional focus. She sought out other young adults going through cancer and found that peer support helped her feel less isolated. She later joined patient advisory groups and became active in colorectal cancer advocacy. By sharing her experience with ostomy care, early-onset cancer, and survivorship, Allison now works to connect patients, caregivers, and researchers and to encourage younger adults to take concerning symptoms seriously.