Last summer, after four days of on and off abdominal pain, I ended up in the ER where a mass was discovered on my left ovary. The gynecological surgeon said before surgery, I needed a colonoscopy. It was immediately after that test that my husband and I were told—it was cancer. I was shocked. My husband asked, “Are you sure? Could it not be?” But the answer was clear.

Within a week, I underwent a colectomy and hysterectomy. Ten days later, I met with my medical oncologist and learned my diagnosis: stage 4 colon cancer. The disbelief was heavy. A month later, I began chemotherapy. I’ve now completed 14 treatments, and the plan is chemo for life.

It’s been a tough journey, but I am not giving up. I will keep fighting. I will keep living my life to the fullest.

Early-Onset CRC (EOCRC)