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.
Jessica Acosta
"You aren’t alone at any point in your journey. This community has been one of the most impactful and uplifting things on my journey and it can be the same for you. There will be good and bad days, but there is someone who understands and can listen."
Ashlyn Carter
My advice to someone who may be afraid to seek medical advice or screening is if something doesn't feel right, go to the doctor and never stop trying to fight for yourself. Also, push for genetic testing and get second opinions.
Jack Birren
YOUR story will mean something to all, but could mean everything to one.
Spencer Dayton
"Get screened!"
Zakela Mickens
No matter the stage of your diagnosis, live out every moment to your fullest capacity. Do something you have never done before if you can: Take a trip somewhere that you have never been. Do something you love with the people you love, but most of all TELL YOUR STORY. It could save someone!
Denelle Suranski
Watching the life cycle of the butterflies is a reminder of what she has gone through with her cancer journey. “In a way, I went through a similar cycle. I had to grow and change to get to be the person I am now. The knowledge and wisdom I have gained since my diagnosis has allowed me to emerge as a beautiful butterfly.”
Stephen Estrada
“I often tell newly diagnosed patients that they are the coach of their cancer care team. Your oncologist is the quarterback, but it is up to you to run the team,” he says. “You will hear a lot of ‘no’s’ as you present information to your team, but for every 20 ‘no’s’ there will be at least one ‘yes.’ And sometimes, all you need is that one ‘yes.’”
Help Write the Next Chapter
We encourage anyone with a colorectal cancer story to share.
