Ashlyn Carter
Patient/Survivor
Rectal
Age at Diagnosis: 32
My advice to someone who may be afraid to seek medical advice or screening is if something doesn't feel right, go to the doctor and never stop trying to fight for yourself. Also, push for genetic testing and get second opinions.
I first started having issues in December 2022, and they got worse in 2023. My symptoms included rectal bleeding, fatigue, and nausea. I noticed a real change in April and tried to get appointments but couldn’t. So, my husband help me get with my doctor and had to call a few people because I was having a hard time. When I was finally seen, they ran a couple tests and sent me to another doctor to have a colonoscopy. Once I had the colonoscopy I waited two weeks.
On May 10, at age 32, I got my diagnosis. I was at the hospital when I found out, and I was by myself until my husband and my coworker came. I was really caught off guard and confused because I didn’t know why this was happening.
I had my biomarkers tested, and I have Lynch syndrome. I am receiving targeted therapy/immunotherapy.
Being surrounded by family and friends helped so much and kept me busy doing things that made you happy during this time.
