How I Reacted To A Diagnosis Of Stage 3 Colon Cancer
One day that will always be in my mind is the day I learnedAs an attorney I had handled claims involving the delayed diagnosis of cancer and yet even this experience did not prepare me for listening to those words applied to me. Given that I had worked as a delayed diagnosis of cancer attorney and learned the symptoms of a number of different types of cancers, including advanced colon cancer I did not hesitate when I started to experience symptoms myself.
I saw my family doctor who advised that while I was too young for routine screening for colon cancer and regardless that I had no family history of colon cancer (at the time) that I ought to nonetheless undergo a colonoscopy to rule out cancer as the cause of my symptoms.
The colonoscopy uncovered that I had a significant cancerous tumor and surgery confirmed that it had already begun spreading and was stage 3 colon cancer. Not good news. I knew there was a positive part of this was that at least it had not reached stage iv colon cancer. Yet it was metastatic colon cancer that had spread to my lymph nodes. And I had a moment of genuine fear and uncertainty when I was given the news. I realized that my chances of long term survival were just about even. Even though I was a lawyer and had previously handled medical malpractice cases, even claims involving colon cancer, did not prevent that moment of pure anxiety and dread. For at that moment I thought I was going to die.
Even though I required a few weeks to recuperate after surgery and although there were days while undergoing chemotherapy when I needed to just rest, I was, generally, able to keep working. This gave me tremendous pleasure. I felt that I was able to carry my weight and lead more or less a regular life throughout my treatment. Seven years later I exhibit no evidence of cancer. If I had waited even just a few months the cancer would have continued to advance and I most likely would not have survived.
Obviously, if you have symptoms suggestive of colon cancer getting the correct test immediately might save your life. The best way to give oneself the most treatment options and the greatest chance of surviving the cancer is to diagnose and treat it early.
The content above is only for basic educational uses and is not meant as medical advice. Consult a physician without delay if you show any symptoms of colon cancer.