Robin Viar

Story: "In March of 2012, I was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer. I was 39 years old, and I had no family medical history of colorectal cancer. After my diagnosis, I immediately had colon surgery and had 24 lymph nodes and ovaries removed as well. I completed six rounds of 5FU/FOLFOX/Avastin regimen every other week, and then had a liver resection where they removed half of my liver. Then had six more rounds of chemo every other week, and I was declared cancer-free in January 2013! I have had several scares and surgeries since, but I've remained cancer-free for four years now!

"I am one of the co-directors of the 'Get Your Rear In Gear-Charlotte' 5K. The reason I am involved with advocacy and counseling opportunities is in hopes to help as many people as I can. I am very ready to learn and take advantage of the amazing opportunity with Call-On Congress this year. I want to share and advocate for others to create more awareness, education, and understanding of this disease. Having an amazing support system that has helped me through my journey, I hope to pay their support forward. I am truly thankful for each day I can spend with my family and friends!"

Advice: "Take it one step at a time, one treatment at a time, one surgery at a time. Sometimes one hour at a time! Don't look too far ahead in the journey, because it can become very overwhelming. It is best to focus on the present, and let your friends and family help you. You are giving them a gift by letting them help, and you will receive one in return!"