The year I turned 50, 2003, I had my first screening colonoscopy. My paternal grandmother died of colon cancer at the age of 72 years, so I was relieved when the results were normal. Later that same year I was diagnosed with Stage 1B Endometrial Adenocarcinoma. I had a total abdominal hysterectomy and that was the only treatment I required.
Early in 2006 I started noticing blood IN my stools. I am an RN, so in describing my stool I was careful to point out to my primary physician and Gynecological Oncologist that the blood was IN my stool. They were quick to point out that I had a normal colonoscopy less than three years ago.
I was persistent and in September I demanded a referral to a Colorectal Surgeon. Again I carefully and accurately described my stools, but upon initial examination the surgeon found hemorrhoids that she banded and declared that would take care of my symptoms. When I returned to her 6 weeks later for a follow-up visit I explained that I was still having blood IN my stools. She said that some bleeding would still be normal after the hemorrhoidectomy.
By now the holidays were upon us, so I decided to put my pursuit of a colonoscopy on hold until the first of the year. I contacted the colorectal surgeon and set up an appointment. Since my words seemed insufficient, I took a photograph of my stool, printed the photo on my home printer and took the photo with me to the appointment. I handed the photo to the colorectal surgeon and said, "This is what I have been trying to tell you since September." She took one look at the photo, and said, "We need to do a colonoscopy!". Eureka!
She biopsied a growth that came back as Adenocarcinoma. On Valentine's Day 2007, 11 months after my first symptoms, I had a laparoscopic colon resection for Stage 1 Recto-Sigmoid Adenocarcinoma. Fortunately, despite the delay in diagnosis and treatment, surgery was the only treatment I required.
I am now 10 years cancer free. The example I hope to share is that each person must be their own advocate and use whatever means necessary to have your voice heard.