CEA Colon Cancer Tumour Marker, Home Kit – £79

Story of Colon Cancer Shared

Desmond James was living a life that was both challenging and encouraging a few years ago. He was a janitor at an elementary school and a caregiver for his grandmother and father, who had been diagnosed with dementia and survived a stroke. Desmond attended numerous medical appointments and always relished returning home to prepare meals for his family. Desmond relished spending time with his father and strolling with his grandmother during his leisure hours.

This was until Desmond began to experience abdominal discomfort for a few months before visiting the doctor for a routine check-up. A colonoscopy was prescribed after the patient described his symptoms of abdominal pains, recent constipation, and fatigue to his physician. Desmond was diagnosed with stage III CC at the age of 39 during his subsequent physician visit in October 2021.

“I was taken aback!” My initial reaction was, “Why me?” I am an ardent walker, gym-goer, and cyclist. Desmond initiated treatment immediately, undergoing five rounds of radiation and seven cycles of chemotherapy. This transformation from caregiver to patient was a valuable learning experience for Desmond. At this time, Desmond was able to care for his grandmother and father while simultaneously battling cancer.

Desmond found treatment to be a challenging experience; however, he persevered by concentrating on his family, his recovery, and his faith. “I received an immense amount of support from my father, my brothers, friends, cousins, uncles, and aunts.” One relative in particular consistently provided me with motivational words and attended all of my treatments, with the exception of one. In addition to the affection and support for which Desmond was so grateful, he turned to song to help him navigate his difficult circumstances. In particular, Desmond would be observed singing “I am Healed” by Donald Lawrence, regardless of whether it was a day of treatment or relaxation.

He was informed by his physician in March 2022 that his tumor had been removed. He commemorates being cancer-free for more than one year today. Desmond is sharing his story today in order to increase awareness of CC and encourage individuals who are hesitant to visit the doctor to do so. He advises others to not delay in attending a check-up. The longer you delay, the more fear can negatively impact your health. Once fear has taken hold, it leads to anxiety, which in turn induces tension and other health issues. Go acquire a screen before it is too late.

Desmond has been relishing life in his birthplace of Reserve since he was cancer-free. He is currently pursuing a career as a nutritionist and is employed as a baker. Desmond engages in daily physical activity, attends the gym, and embarks on lengthy treks. Desmond’s commitment to his family is unwavering, regardless of whether he is confronted with adversity. “There is a proverb that says, ‘Give people their flowers while they can smell them.'” I accomplished the same thing with my late grandmother, Ida M. Stanton, who passed away in April 2023.

Desmond is dedicated to the pursuit of becoming an advocate for colon cancer and continues to provide care for his father while living a peaceful existence. Laurie Kosher’s cancer diagnosis was a complete blow. She was a dedicated vegetarian who frequently participated in multi-mile runs, and at 44, she was the epitome of health. She never called in sick to work unless one of her three children was ill. She assumed that her intermittent bloating, weight loss, and irregular bowel movements were simply a consequence of the natural aging process or gluten sensitivity. These symptoms were not recognized by Laurie’s physicians as early warning indications of a severe issue.

Laurie was diagnosed with IBS due to her severe abdominal discomfort. Laurie initiated the use of laxatives in an effort to alleviate her tension. A few weeks later, a primary care physician prescribed her antibiotics, suspecting that the symptoms were the result of a stomach virus. The pain and gastrointestinal issues deteriorated over the course of the subsequent months. Doctors discovered nodules in Laurie’s pelvis and lungs six months after she completed a three-month round of chemotherapy. Laurie’s illness had become more aggressive, and she was promptly diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer. Laurie’s fallopian tubes and ovaries were surgically removed.

She was subjected to an additional six months of radiation and chemotherapy for her lungs. “It appeared as though someone had used a salt shaker to sprinkle cancer throughout her abdominal cavity,” stated one physician. Laurie was never going to be able to rid herself of her illness once her diagnosis advanced to stage IV. Laurie was previously employed as a physical therapy assistant; however, she now considers illness to be a full-time occupation. Laurie has three children, the oldest of whom is approaching the age of 23.

Laurie is appreciative of the CEA opportunity to witness him complete his college education and secure his first professional position. She is concerned that he is under pressure to maintain a sense of order for his sisters. Laurie, her husband, Glen, and their two daughters reside in Asheville. It has been crucial for both of them to be completely transparent with the children regarding Laurie’s health. The entire family embarked on a summer vacation to Alaska following Laurie’s departure from her position. Laurie and Glen could also take a honeymoon excursion that they never had after they were married. Glen has been able to remain present with Laurie throughout the entire ordeal due to the flexibility and support of his employer.

Laurie was diagnosed ten months prior to Glen’s mother’s death from lung cancer. Laurie is currently participating in a clinical trial at Duke University that involves the administration of two drugs. Laurie said that while the drugs are not expected to eradicate her cancer, they’re doing their job of “keeping the beast at bay.” Laurie’s extended family is an active participant in the annual Get Your Rear in Gear – Asheville annual fundraiser.

Laurie’s cell service intermittently failed during our telephone conversation for this narrative. She was making the call from her hotel near Duke, where she travels every other week for treatment. She paused through sniffles toward the conclusion of our conversation. She laughed: “My mom is sitting beside me, passing me tissues while we talk.” Laurie advises others dealing with cancer not to feel pressure and always to display positivity. It is permissible to remain in one’s current location. Sometimes, you need someone to sit next to you and pass tissues while you cry, and that’s enough.