Anna Zimmer
Patient/Survivor
Rectal
Age at Diagnosis: 46
"You are not alone. Hold tight to your faith and keep your family close."
On 10/24/25, I went in for what I thought was a routine baseline colonoscopy. A few days later, on 10/27/25, my chart showed something I never expected: adenocarcinoma. On 10/30/25, I met with a surgeon who confirmed the cancer diagnosis.
From there, my care plan changed multiple times—whether to start with chemo or surgery. Ultimately, I had surgery on 12/9/25. I was told the procedure was successful, and all surgical margins were clear.
I had no family history of colorectal cancer and no noticeable symptoms. That colonoscopy truly saved my life by catching my cancer early.
Please don’t delay your preventive screenings. They matter more than you realize. 💙
