We had just moved across the country from North Dakota to Texas for hubby’s job at the end of 2020. Naturally, I was exhausted: from moving, as a mom of five, and we had just had a litter of puppies. I grew up with IBS, so blood in stool wasn’t always uncommon. I didn’t lose weight, the opposite was happening.

But, I had a gut feeling to see a gastrointestinal doctor – finally. Six months after the move, I looked online in our new Texas location. I had a video visit. I mentioned the word “blood,” and she immediately scheduled a colonoscopy.

I woke up from colonoscopy being told with my hubby, that they suspected colon cancer, as my sigmoid colon had a massive tumor in it. Sure enough, stage IV colon cancer with mets to liver, lungs, lymph nodes, peritoneal lining, etc. Not only that, but I have the BRAF and MSS mutations, which cause cancer to spread and grow rapidly. So, it’s an extra “special” case.

I was diagnosed June 2021 (just six months after moving to Texas – and luckily for me, we happened to move close to MD Anderson Cancer Center). I had a surgery in October, and I was told there was too much cancer. I was closed back up and was told to enjoy my last holidays. It’s been two years since I was told that. I’m now no longer “inoperable.” I do live with a colostomy, due to much of my colon being removed.

I have now had two surgeries, going on a third due to new cancer growth. I’ve also participated in two clinical trials, and lots of chemo. I try to keep my body as strong as I possibly can, especially the immune system to help it fight! Chemo doesn’t know the difference of cancer cells vs. healthy cells, so I try and do my part. I throw everything at this cancer that I can, medically and naturally.

I will continue to fight this!

Please, please, please get checked! Don’t wait for all the “typical cancer symptoms” like I did. I kept telling myself that it was just IBS and because I was gaining weight instead of losing, I couldn’t have cancer. I made up a lot of excuses for myself. (Including not having medical insurance). I tried to be tough about it and push the pain aside. If you don’t have medical insurance (we were paying cash for medical at the time), find a way to get a colonoscopy paid for! It’s that important! You need to fight for yourself!

I am naturally a fighter. But, I have allowed myself some quick time (like a day or two) to grieve and be sad, but then I have to quickly turn my mind into fighting this. I try and stay positive and bubbly. Doctors and nurses comment on my attitude all the time. It truly helps! I rely on what I am fighting for: my hubby and my five kids, along with other family members, and countless friends. I will not give up! And I don’t want all my energy going to negative thoughts.