After experiencing weight loss, persistent stomach pain, and blood in my stool, I went for a colonoscopy, which revealed a tumor in my colon that had already begun to spread but remained within the colon.
Stage 3 colorectal cancer was the final diagnosis. My doctor recommended laparoscopic surgery to remove the affected parts of the colon and lymph nodes, alongside chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Thankfully, I've completed active treatment and am currently in remission. I continue to take vitamins and minerals to support my health.
I started losing weight and I had stomach pains that didn’t go away. I started seeing blood in my stool and I went to see my doctor. They did a colonoscopy and found a tumor, it had already started spreading but was still contained in my colon. The final diagnosis was stage 3 colorectal cancer.
Hearing the news that I had cancer left me sad, and a sense of grief. I was worried about my future.
I knew some lifestyle adjustments had to be made after my diagnosis. I focused on lowering my alcohol intake, going from 4 drinks a week to just 1, and eating a healthier diet to improve my nutrition.
As recommended by my oncologist, I did laparoscopic surgery to remove the affected sections of my colon and lymph nodes, as well as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I made the decision after taking my finances into consideration and trusting my doctor’s expertise.
Still, it did admittedly make me feel anxious and scared. Apart from conventional therapies, I also took traditional chinese medicine (TCM) as part of alternative treatment. I’ve since completed my treatment, and am currently in remission whilst taking vitamins and minerals.
Chemo came with a lot of side effects which often can be painful. I was also tired all the time.
The lifestyle adjustments that I made post-diagnosis carried into the phase of my treatment. So, I continued to lower my alcohol intake and eat a healthier diet regularly.
The one other aspect of my life that’s changed since diagnosis is my relationship with my 3 children. Even though we continue to go on our yearly family trip, we spend a bit less time together now.
I plan to try ballroom dancing with my husband. I’d also like to catch up on reading, I used to read a lot of whodunit novels.
Personally, my biggest dreams were to rest. I actually looked forward to going out more since I was too tired to leave the house, but since my recovery I still haven’t managed to go on any trips.
As for dreams with my loved ones, I honestly didn’t have any. My kids kept looking at me with sorrow. I love their visits but it can really dampen the mood if every visit from family and relatives comes with looks of pity.
I did not want to be in pain. Pain was my biggest fear. Chemo came with a lot of side effects which often can be painful. I’d rather not experience pain. I was also tired all the time. I was afraid that’s how I’ll feel all the time. To deal with it, I just looked forward to recovery.
It’s been more than 3 years since I was first diagnosed in February 2021. The sadness and grief that I felt then have since dissipated, and I feel rather neutral now.
Make the most out of your time. When you feel like you have the energy, make use of it to do something you like. Keep your morale up. Surround yourself with positive energy.
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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