Colorectal Cancer Stories
Explore our library of colorectal cancer stories by using the filter below. Delve into shared personal insights on the experience of being diagnosed, undergoing treatment and more.
Diagnosed Before Age 50
While cancer is generally thought to be an old-age disease, this doesn't mean that younger people will never get it. These stories of patients and survivors reflect the need for earlier detection and diagnosis.
I’m waiting for the birth of my newborn. It is what I’ve been looking forward to.

Cancer may have changed me, but it hasn't broken me. If anything, it's made me stronger, more determined to live life to the fullest.

I had a family history of cancer and I’ve lost my sister to the disease.

My biggest fear was losing my independence. I made a conscious effort to reclaim my independence in any way I could, by trying to keep everything as normal as possible.

My biggest dream is to continue teaching because I love my kids in school. Thinking about them and going back to work kept me motivated and focused.

This is my story of dealing with stage 2 colorectal cancer as well as lung adenocarcinoma. My biggest aspiration is to get my nursing license after completing my treatment.

I want to raise awareness about how important it is to go for screening like a colonoscopy. Colon cancer needs more awareness.

Throughout my cancer journey, I have been dealing with fear that the treatments wouldn't work. To deal with my fear, my doctor referred me to a therapist who can help with my anxiety.

Cancer Found Through Routine Check-ups
Sometimes, cancer may be present even if there are no symptoms. These patients discovered their colorectal cancer unexpectedly after a routine health check-up.
My biggest aspiration is to live a long and healthy life with my wife who is also a breast cancer survivor. She’s motivated me to stay positive throughout my cancer journey.

Today, as I reflect on my journey, a myriad of emotions course through me. Initially, I was optimistic and confident. But now I feel fearful, overwhelmed and helpless.

My personal aspirations mostly center on completing my half marathon and achieving a good timing.

My advice to other cancer patients would be to tell people how you really feel.

I didn’t have any symptoms at all; rather, it was during a routine health checkup that the doctor advised me to get further tests.

Despite the pain and loss I’ve endured, I found optimism and gratitude for my survival and the chance to live fully.

Keep battling and try to retain a positive attitude. Spend time with your friends and family and don't be frightened to talk to them about how you feel.

Experience with Stoma Bags
These patients require a colostomy and wear a stoma bag as part of their treatment. Learn how they adapted to it, and made it part of their normal routine.
The sudden weight loss I experienced was suspicious enough for me to seek online explanations for it.

My biggest fear now revolves around the upcoming surgery, as it entails the removal of my entire large intestine and living with a stoma.

My biggest desire is simply to spend as much time as possible with my loved ones. I'd love to see my daughter get married and start a family.

Someone who has, or has had cancer, preferably one with the same type as you.

Ask for help and have a support team. No matter what, you are an important person.

If at all possible, don't cancel or reschedule treatments or testing. Every day counts on this cancer journey and will matter in the end.
