Patient & Caregiver Stories
Behind every colorectal diagnosis is a human confronting the unthinkable. In our Champion Stories Hub, you’ll find colon cancer stories and rectal cancer stories. Fight CRC works to ensure nobody fights alone.
Margaret Mullaney
"You know when something is wrong...you just know. Take action without delay, and you could very well save your own life."
Carol Koch
"Don’t be shy or embarrassed to talk about colon and rectal cancer. It’s something everyone needs to be aware of and tested for. Early detection can save your life!"
Kathi Heintzelman
"If you are diagnosed, find something to keep you busy after treatment by volunteering to be a voice."
Dana Gianfrancesco
"This journey is not easy, but it can be done with grace and peace. We need each other to get through this because only we understand the PTSD that is created from hearing, "You have cancer." Each stage has its own issues. Find your people."
Natalie Riede
"I discovered the power of guided meditation, hypnosis, and talking therapy, which all gave me the tools I needed to be able to process my emotions, release stress, and anxiety and start living my life again."
Brad Franzen
"Be your own advocate. When I was first having symptoms three years beforehand, I wasn’t knowledgeable or motivated enough to get a second opinion. If you think something is wrong, push for screening."
Welda Varela
"Never, ever give up. Your attitude is 50% of the fight."
Patti Whitaker
"Life is precious. Live it to the fullest as healthy as you can to enjoy your loved ones."
Jennifer VanMeter
"You are worth it and turn your pain into a purpose to help others. Never give up. Allow yourself grace and lean on others."
William (Ronny) Day
"Try to stay strong and pray a lot! I'm a prime example of it, I wanted to quit many times, but I refused to let cancer control me. We are survivors!"
Kris Sharp
"You are stronger than you think! Even if it’s getting up off the couch to change the TV channel, you are strong!"
Kristin Koval
"You're stronger than you know."
Help Write the Next Chapter
We encourage anyone with a colorectal cancer story to share.
