Survivor Story 

When I started to experience an abnormal amount of blood in my stool, severe fatigue, unexpected weight loss, and changes in my bowel habits at age 31, I had no idea what could be going on. Luckily, I worked in cancer research at the time, so I knew I needed to talk to my gastroenterologist. After I finally scheduled an appointment with her and we talked, a colonoscopy was scheduled. I have to admit that since I was busy with work and life, I didn't spend too much time worrying about what the outcome would be. I had no idea things were about to change forever.

On June 7th, 2012, my life was turned upside down after my colonoscopy. I was diagnosed with Stage 2C colorectal cancer. The symptoms I was experiencing were the result of a 13 cm tumor. My treatment journey was long and complicated. I had a combination of radiation/chemotherapy and three open surgeries, which ultimately led to a placement of a permanent ileostomy in December, 2016.

Cancer was very rough but I am proud to say I am now a 10 year survivor. My goal will always be to get back to the best quality of life possible and live life to the fullest. All this craziness I have experienced the past few years has helped me realize a new mission in life: to help others and spread awareness about preventable cancers to the communities people often forget about. Since I have experience on both sides of the fence, I work to bridge the gap between the healthcare system and the communities that it serves.