3+ Years Cancer FREE - and MANY MORE!!!

This update is WAY overdue but better now than never. I only have good, clean progress and results to report. My most recent colonoscopy came back with a "mostly" clear report. As per my new normal I definitely had polyps removed but therein lies the good news. They removed them and did not find any additional areas of concern. I am grateful (despite my complaining about the super special DOUBLE PREP that I have the opportunity to complete each year). As usual, I still have more "routine" tests and scans than the average Joe. I look forward to the continued spacing of those observations. I have already reached the every 6 month mark for my CT and lab draws, and once I reach the 5 year mark I will get to move to annual CT and labs until my 10 year clear report. At that point my Oncologist will allow me to have more of a say in how I follow up. My veins will be especially grateful. (I only have 1 good vein in my left arm and none in my right arm. We could use a little break from all of the poking and prodding, to say the least). Last year was the first time in 5 years that I was finally able to see a family practice doctor for an annual exam, instead of keeping all of my care filtered through the cancer center. It feels like a little step, but honestly, this paves the way to my transition out of the Cancer clinic. I am grateful beyond words for the amazing care I have received and the compassionate approach my Oncologist has had with me. She is one of the smartest people I have ever met and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God weaved our paths together. Her level of care goes deep beyond the traditional patient / Doctor relationship. Can you believe that it was only a mere 2 years ago that I posted this? Colorectal Cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. Colorectal Cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. 1 in 24 people will be diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer in their lifetime. Colorectal Cancer can be prevented with screening!!! Colorectal Cancer is highly treatable when detected early!!! 1,500,000 colorectal cancer survivors in the U.S. Fast Forward to 2026: Each year about 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with Colon Cancer and more than 50,000 people will die from Colon Cancer in 2026. Young adults are the only population group experiencing an increase in colorectal cancer, and it's currently the deadliest cancer among young men and the second deadliest among young women. (https://colorectalcancer.org/basics/facts-and-statistics) Something's gotta give! These statistics are horrible but there is a growing amount of evidence that diet and lifestyle play a key factor in risk. I could get on my soapbox, but I will simply say: Eat whole foods. Exercise regularly. Stress less. Love more. And most of all - TRUST GOD! He is the ultimate healer. May you find HOPE in Jesus wherever your journey takes you.

Hopeful, Steph