认识凯特琳

Caitlin DeVos, caregiver
Plymouth, Minnesota

凯特琳的故事

When I was 16 years old, my mom went in for a routine colonoscopy after turning that 'magical age' of 50. It was a shock to learn that she had stage IIIC colon cancer. She had no symptoms and was an extremely healthy and wonderful person. We began a journey of surgeries, chemotherapies, radiation and more that lasted two and a half years. She battled back against her disease with courage and strength, and found humor in every twist and turn. Her spirit was remarkable and the compassion from family and friends was incredible.

Unfortunately, my mom lost her battle in 2010, when I was just 19 years old. She is the reason why I am so passionate about finding a cure for colon cancer and why I'm so passionate about getting people screened! My mom and I saved a handful of lives with her story. We have encouraged loved ones to get screened and they have been able to prevent colon cancer by catching polyps early. Screenings save lives, pure and simple. I continue to wage my mom's battle for her by making my voice heard in March and every month for this cause.

百万雄师对凯特琳的意义

One Million Strong means coming together to share strength, support and evidence that will help save others from colorectal cancer. It means ensuring that all people have access to colorectal cancer screenings and motivating the grassroots base to be advocates for public policy in order to make this happen. It means making sure that every colorectal cancer patient feels supported and uplifted by the strength and compassion of others who have beat this disease. It means telling cancer that we aren't afraid of it and that we are committed to beating it. One Million Strong means HOPE that we will defeat this disease.

凯特琳的建议

在癌症带来的曲折中寻找幽默。我妈妈常说，我们必须处理好手中的牌，这一点在癌症确诊时再正确不过了。坚持不懈，教育自己，利用社区资源，以坚定不移的精神对抗疾病。照顾好自己，知道有时生气、难过或软弱都没关系。为自己和自己的护理辩护--你能战胜疾病！最重要的是充分利用与家人和朋友在一起的时间，不要让癌症夺走你的精神和希望。

关于 "Meet the One Million Strong – Caitlin D. From Minnesota "的一个想法