April Schack hails from New Castle, Delaware. Fight CRC had some questions for April about her experience as Fight CRC Ambassador:

Q: What is your connection to colorectal cancer?

A: I am a patient/survivor.

Q: What does being a Fight CRC Ambassador mean to you?

A: Being an Ambassador has meant raising awareness and saving lives. It's also been about meeting so many survivors that are like family.

Q: What compelled you to apply to be a Fight CRC Ambassador?

A: I wanted to be a Fight CRC Ambassador because I believe that we can truly create progress and change when we work together. While attending my first Call-on Congress in 2019, I was in absolute awe of the passion that filled every single advocate in the room. I think it's incredibly beautiful that even though we were all brought together by one common, unwanted matchmaker (CRC), we have banded together and become stronger; united by the fire in our bellies to save lives.

Q: What have you learned during your introductory Ambassador year?

A: During my Ambassador year, I learned that all of the survivors and caregivers I've met over the past year are a huge support system. We are all truly a family and together can get people to talk about uncomfortable things in order to raise awareness.

Q: This year, our Ambassador stories reached millions! From being featured in Fight CRC communications, Times Square, and local media, your face has been everywhere. What was the most exciting part for you?

A: Times Square was the most exciting part for me!

Q: What's your FAVORITE thing about being an Ambassador?

A: The family I've become a part of is my favorite thing about being an Ambassador.

Q: Have you noticed growth within yourself over the past year?

A: Yes. Telling my story was painful to talk about. Also, hearing others’ stories has brought so many tears, but made me realize why we are all here...to save lives.

Q: Would you recommend getting involved with Fight CRC to others?

A: Yes. I'm not sure people realize that CRC is on the rise. I've had so many people reach out and say that they went and got screened because of my story.

Q: What motivates you to advocate for the CRC community?

A: Knowing that I almost lost my life because of colon cancer, I was given this chance to save others' lives, is what motivates me to advocate for the CRC community. My own children will have to get screened early, and I hope to see the age to get screened lowered.*

Q: What advice do you have for those who recently have been diagnosed or who have loved ones who recently have been diagnosed?

A: You are not alone! Join our family!

Q: How will you continue your efforts beyond the close of your introductory Ambassador year?

A: I will continue my efforts by continuing to push people to get screened. I will also actively continue to post on social media, as well as take part in Climb for a Cure and Call-on Congress.

*After we interviewed April, the USPSTF lowered the screening age for average-risk individuals to 45, which was due in large part to her advocacy efforts!

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Fight CRC is grateful for the support of April and the 2020-2021 Fight CRC Ambassadors as they continue to serve as relentless champions of hope!