I was diagnosed, at the end of 2019 with stage III rectal cancer in late 2019 at age 55. My first colonoscopy at age 50 (the then-recommended screening age) was uneventful with no polyps or issues. A recommended screening five years later saved my life. I had no signs or symptoms. Until she was diagnosed, I had never heard of colorectal cancer. I know I’m not alone, and I passionately believe it is crucial to help people feel comfortable and normal talking about their bottoms.

During 2020 I had 6 weeks of radiation, and oral chemo, followed by 2 surgeries, (plus ileostomy,) and 6 sessions of IV chemo. It was a hard journey for me in 2020, since COVID had impacted the entire world. Here in the U.S., we were completely shut down. Consequently, I had to do all doctor’s appointments, treatments, both chemo and radiation as well as hospital stays completely on my own.

Thankfully I found the Fight CRC website which lead me to resources, and connected me with support groups. This website was my saving grace during this difficult time in America. I began visiting the Fight CRC website “almost daily” to educate myself. As I began to learn more from and about Fight CRC, I became a Resource Champion and started sharing resources with my surgeon for distribution to his patients to bridge a “disconnect” between patients and medical professionals.In August of 2020 Fight CRC posted that they were doing a virtual Climb for a Cure. This was my first Climb event for Fight CRC. I believe that there were 15 of us that first year. I’m proud to say that I have now hosted 4 successful climbs in Lake George NY. Last year we had over 100 people and raised over $20,000.

With each passing year my passion to spread awareness and help others who are on this journey grows exponentially.

In 2024, I attended my first Call-on Congress. Its difficult to put into words what the experience meant to me. The people whom I have “known” through the years via social media and the Fight website as well as community of champions over these past few years, and meeting them in person, sharing our stories, hugs, tears and laughter… it’s indescribable.

I never imagined that I would be the person championing for a cause, but I feel as if it is my purpose, why I have been lead down this path. To help others along this journey, to advocate, to effect change, to support those who are at a loss, like I was. To create awareness day in and day out, because if I can save one life, I have done good.