arrow copy Created with Sketch. FightCRC Logo fcc-logo-light
Kathi Heintzelman

Kathi Heintzelman

Patients & Survivors Stage III Colon Cancer Florida
Back to Champion Stories
Guest Post by Kathi Heintzelman • April 1, 2023

Kathi's Story

After being diagnosed anemic after routine bloodwork, my primary care wanted to order a colonoscopy which I refused. Five months later, I had a total blockage requiring emergency surgery. My surgeon total me the day before, while I was alone in my hospital room, it could be cancer.

Kathi's Advice

The sooner a patient has a colonoscopy, the sooner treatment can start and possibly of diagnosis will be a lesser stage. Please get screened. If you are diagnosed, find something to keep you busy after treatment by volunteering to be a voice.

Topics: Side Effects, Treatments, Chemotherapy, Surgery, Fatigue, Bowel irregularities, Pain, High blood pressure, Neuropathy, Chemo brain, Distress or mental health issues/illness
About the Author

Kathi Heintzelman was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer at age 52. She resides in Florida.

Follow Kathi
Related Resources

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Stories

Patient/Survivor Stage III Rectal Cancer

Ashlyn Carter

Side Effects, Fatigue, Rectal bleeding or blood in stool, Other (please explain)
Family Member of Patient Blood Relative Stage III Colon Cancer

Liliana Bolaños

Side Effects, Fatigue, Rectal bleeding or blood in stool, Ongoing change in bowel habits, Stomach cramps/bloating/fullness, Anemia/low iron
Patient/Survivor Stage III Rectal Cancer

Stephanie McBride

Side Effects, Fatigue, Rectal bleeding or blood in stool, Ongoing change in bowel habits, Narrow stools, Stomach cramps/bloating/fullness, Anemia/low iron