Testimonials
"Colorectal cancer screening has truly changed my life. "
Just as I was about to turn 50, my doctor recommended that I get tested for colorectal cancer – a simple, painless procedure that saved my life. I was diagnosed with stage 1 colorectal cancer and I’m doing well today. I challenged myself to get out of my comfort zone and tell my story because it needs to be told. If my story can convince a single person to get tested, then it’s worth it.
“Everyone with a colon is at risk! Let's talk about the screening test.”
I’ve been a family physician for over 30 years, and I guide patients through difficult challenges every day. But in 2016, I saw the flipside of the doctor-patient relationship when I was diagnosed with stage 1 colorectal cancer. Because my cancer was detected early, all it took was one operation. Being a patient is what truly made me realize the importance of early detection. So to all those who are still on the fence: do it, it’s worth it. Don’t neglect your health, move your butt and get tested!
“When we know that a simple test can reduce the risks and even prevent the development of colorectal cancer, we have a duty to talk about it.”
I’m a radio host. My job is to find stories, to listen to experts and to understand the issues that affect our world. All too often, I hear stories about cancers that were discovered too late, harsh treatments, and overwhelmed families.
So when you know that a simple test can reduce the risk of getting colorectal cancer or even prevent it, it’s your duty to talk about it.
“As in sports, when it comes to health, you have to be proactive: prevention is the best tool.”
Having lost my father to colorectal cancer, this cause hits home. My dad’s generation didn’t see doctors very often. It wasn’t the norm, and yet this lack of prevention is what cost him his life. Today, we’re fortunate to have access to simple, quick and accessible tests that can prevent history from repeating itself. When it comes to sports and our health, being proactive is a must, and prevention is our best tool.
My life has changed dramatically since my stage 4 colorectal cancer diagnosis. Surgery, chemo, treatments cycles … I never thought I’d have to face all this. If I had known that I could have gotten tested as of the age of 50, my retirement would probably have gone as planned. My cancer journey may not be over yet, but I’ve come to see life differently now. If talking about the screening test can spare even one family from this ordeal, then it will have been worth it.
I come across people with colorectal cancer a whole lot, and my job allows me to help prevent it. Many of these cancers are preventable. This is why talking about prevention and the FIT screening is all the more important! People engage in magical thinking when they assume they won’t ever get sick, but cancer doesn't care about your race or your gender. The more we talk about it, the faster we can get through it, together.
Fatigue was my only symptom when I was suddenly diagnosed with colon cancer almost 13 years ago. But I didn't let this silent killer bring me down. I stayed positive and listened to the advice of specialists to emerge victorious. In recent years, I’ve become very involved in getting the word out and remain committed to talking about prevention.
Having worked in the GI surgical field for some time, I’ve attended to many colorectal cancer patients. Today, I find myself on the front lines in the emergency room and always encourage patients aged 50 to 74 to get regular testing. I know the flip side of the coin and prevention is the key! As a nurse, I feel it’s my duty to talk about early detection and to educate the people around me.
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