Christi Andringa

My husband was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer on December 15, 2017. The cancer had metastasized to his liver and 60+ lymph modes. He was 49 years old, with no family history, and at that time, the age for screening was 50. 

I was seated at our kitchen counter preparing for dinner. Rob had a late afternoon doctor’s appointment for a physical, and also to address issues of tiredness, belly aches, and overall feelings of being "off." He called me after his appointment, and said he was running to the store to pick up some last-minute additions to our Friday night feast! At around 4:45pm, both my home phone and cell phone started ringing. It was the doctor's office, desperately trying to get ahold of Rob to tell him to come to the hospital immediately. His red blood cell count was at a level where he shouldn't even be standing upright. Upon his return, he received an abdominal CT scan, and the subsequent news of his cancer diagnosis. Around 7pm that evening, the doctor returned to his bedside and began with the words, "I'm so sorry..." Our lives were forever changed that evening.

Christi's Advice

Never ever give up hope. Commit to living with cancer, rather than dying from it. Find gratefulness, love, and joy in each day you are given. Let people know how you're feeling, and what you need from them. They want to help!