03/09/2024
My Cancer Journey
For those of you who know me well, you may already be aware that last year, I received some unexpected news—I was diagnosed with colon cancer. This came as a huge shock, as I’ve always been mindful of my health, avoiding smoking, alcohol, processed foods, and meat. I've led an active, healthy life and had very few health issues before this.
Throughout 2022, I was frequently visiting doctors who initially suspected I was dealing with IBS. In November 2022, after undergoing blood and stool tests, both returned negative results, which made me believe I was in the clear. However, in March 2023, severe stomach cramps led to further tests—a scan for ovarian cancer, another blood test, and a f***l immunochemical test (FIT). When I saw a private number appear on my phone the next day, I had a feeling the news wouldn’t be good. That marked the beginning of a tumultuous journey.
I’m sharing this experience to emphasize the importance of advocating for your health. If your FIT test comes back negative, but you still feel something isn't right, insist on a colonoscopy screening. It's a lesson I learned the hard way, and I urge you not to wait, especially if you have a family history of cancer.
Upon diagnosis, my surgeon informed me that I had a large tumor Stage 3. Hearing the word "cancer" can make the world blur around you, with your thoughts spinning out of control. Interestingly, I didn't have many of the classic symptoms we’re often told to watch for, like blood in the stool, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss. For me, it was occasional constipation and excessive gas. What finally prompted me to return to the doctor were those persistent stomach cramps, which had become a regular occurrence.
Remember, you know your body best. If something feels off, or if a test result seems inconclusive, don’t hesitate to push for more comprehensive screening. Colon cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when detected early.
Please don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back. Don’t assume it can’t happen to you or dismiss it as something minor. Reach out to your doctor, even if you feel embarrassed or your symptoms don’t fit the textbook definition. These were the thoughts that crossed my mind.
In September last year, I underwent major surgery to remove my ascending and half of my transverse colon, along with my appendix and gallbladder. I knew recovery would take time, but I’ve never felt so ill and weak. Three months after surgery, I began eight rounds of grueling intravenous and oral chemotherapy.
I finished my treatment just over two months ago, and while my body is beginning to heal, I’m still dealing with some unpleasant side effects from the surgery and chemotherapy. People often ask, “Are you better now?” I reply with a “yes,” but the truth is, I won’t know for sure until I’ve completed all my screenings—and even then, I can’t take my health for granted.
Today, 3rd September, I had a CT scan, with one more screening to go. If all the results come back clear, then I can confidently say that I am better.
Moving forward, I won’t take my health, my life, or my loved ones for granted. Every morning, I greet the world with gratitude, cherishing the opportunity to continue this journey.
