Here's how it starts:
"You need to eat more fiber."
"It's hemorrhoids."
"You just gave birth; give your body some time."
For me, it was Celiac Disease before a colonoscopy was ever recommended and done. After six months of horrific abdominal pain, I had a diagnosis. But it wasn’t one I expected: stage IV colon cancer.
When you’re young, colon cancer isn’t on your radar. But I’m living proof that this isn’t just an old man’s disease. And I’m not alone.
This year, more than 15,000 people under age 50 will be diagnosed with this disease. That’s 15,000 people with weddings, children and careers ahead of them. People who won’t see it coming. People like me.
And the scariest thing: colon cancer is on the rise in this age group.
Education and action could put an end to this. That’s why I’m asking you to support the Colon Cancer Alliance. Through their Never Too Young campaign, research agenda and a forthcoming medical journal article, they’re doing a critical service – putting colon cancer on the map for young adults. And once the world knows young people get colon cancer, we can start to squash these staggering trends.
I want to retire and grow old with my husband. I want to see my son get married. I want to see my step-son choose his career path and succeed. I’m not going to sit back and let cancer win and I’m asking you not to, either.
Together, we can make a difference for future generations. Take a stand with me and support the Colon Cancer Alliance .
Never give up.