Meet the One Million Strong – Sarah H. from Ontario

August 8, 2014 • By Intern@FightCRC

Champion Stories
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Sarah-Howe-SurvivorMEET SARAH

Sarah Howe, survivor St. Catharines, Ontario

SARAH'S STORY

On March 28, 2014 I began experiencing intense stomach pain that I brushed off as "normal" because I had just given birth to my third child two days prior.

When the pain persisted, and was still occurring after two weeks, I decided to go to the ER. The doctor said it "might be a kidney infection," and gave me a prescription for antibiotics. The next day I went back and another doctor said, "You probably just tore muscles from labor." I fought with the pain for four more weeks before going back to the ER, where a doctor refused to even look at me because I have lupus, and "I know how lupus can be."

Finally, six-and-a-half weeks after the pain began, I called an ambulance after experiencing some disturbing and frightening symptoms, along with a severe increase in the pain. The ER doctor finally sent me in for a CT scan that revealed I had intussusseption of the bowel. They wheeled me back for emergency surgery where they discovered a tumor in the cecum of my colon and several feet of necrotic small intestine due to the intussusseption, which was due to the tumor.

Since the surgeon wasn't expecting to discover colon cancer in a 26-year-old, he did not do a full scope during the surgery. He removed half of my colon, and several feet of my small intestine. I need to continue to be tested in the weeks to come to ensure there are no other tumors or polyps left behind. I am also going to be tested for Lynch Syndrome in September, due to my age, and a family history of the disease. I am hopeful that by the end of the year, I will be able to proudly declare that I am cancer free!

SARAH'S ADVICE

Don't ever give up. You are stronger and braver than you know. You are an inspiration to everyone, and the lives you touch throughout your journey will be forever grateful for knowing you.

WHAT ONE MILLION STRONG MEANS TO SARAH

The importance of being and staying connected with those who share in the same battle and can understand the loneliness of the disease. To share and be a part of something larger than our individual selves, that helps to raise awareness, and save lives!

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