I went for a colonoscopy and my gastroenterologist found the cancer in August 2023. I went into remission in May 2024 and in 4 months it came back in September 2024 on the outside of my colon and on my ovary. Afterwards, I got a second opinion because I wanted to confirm my diagnosis.

When I first heard the news, I felt a mix of emotions: anger, fear, sadness, surprise and optimism.

Following my doctor’s recommendation, I opted for a partial colectomy (removal of a part of the colon) and chemotherapy (5FU and oxaliplatin), which I was done with in May 2024. I also had a full hysterectomy in October of 2024. So far, I’ve been in remission but it is aggressive and I had genetic testing done. I have to do blood work every month, so right now we are just keeping an eye on my blood work. Hopefully it doesn't come back and as long as my CEA is below 5.0, I won't need treatment. But if it goes above, I will have treatment done. We will discuss the treatment plan – it will either be immunotherapy or trial drugs.

In terms of medical costs, I am covered by insurance and receiving support from family or friends.

My nutrition and diet changed the most after treatment. In particular, I am not a big drinker anyway but I will have the occasional drink.

Regarding end-of-life care for myself or my loved ones, I don't have anything planned right now but I'm looking into it.

Being part of a support group is something I’ve found particularly helpful thus far. Honestly, I wish I knew what to expect during this difficult time in my life. So, my practical advice would be to talk to other people, even though everyone's experience is different.

Because my employer offered some accommodations, I kept working even after my diagnosis. I also needed normalcy and to be out of my house.

Since my cancer diagnosis, I’ve had to face challenges in numerous aspects of my personal life such as:

• Social life and relationships with loved ones
• Day-to-day life
• Self-esteem/self-image
• Professional life

But I have to say that issues in my social life and relationships with loved ones impacted me the most. Thankfully, my partner and my family have been a big support.

My greatest fear? Dying and leaving my family, especially my son. To cope with this, I’ve had therapy through cancer care and an individual therapist through my insurance.

Today, I still feel fearful but optimistic. It’s the never knowing when it will come back.

Look into therapy; group or individual or both. If you know someone that has gone through the same thing, keep in contact because honestly, they will relate to you so much better than someone who hasn't gone through cancer.