Personal Stories

Arty

In December of 2007, at the age of 35, I was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer after suffering for 12 years with ulcerative colitis. It was, and still is, a very challenging time in my life. Thanks to the love and support of my family and friends, I am going to beat this disease. I have been married to my wife, Nicole, for 15 years, and we have a beautiful four-year-old daughter, Brooke.

In January 2008, Dr. Robert Fry of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia removed my entire large intestine, created a temporary ileostomy and created a J-Pouch. In June 2008, I had the "take down" surgery, which removes the ileostomy and reconnects the bowel and J-Pouch. In September 2008, after being out for eight months, I returned to work as a police detective. Shorty after I returned to work, I started chemotherapy. In March 2010, I was finally told I was in remission.

I joined and am very proud to be part of the CCA's Buddy Program. It is a terrific program that allows me to share my story and encourage others to fight through their disease and let them know things can, and will, get better.

Return to Volunteer Spotlights or Personal Stories