To the Editor:
The purpose is to promote awareness about colon cancer and encourage people to get their colon checked.
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Approximately 150,000 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer each year. My interest is very personal, as just before Christmas my husband was diagnosed with colorectal cancer through a trip to the ER. He was having some symptoms but we never thought that two days later he would be having surgery to remove a portion of his colon.
He is now having chemotherapy treatments. Soon to follow are radiation treatments. Colon cancer is a preventable/treatable/beatable disease. The most important part is preventable, by visiting your doctor and having regular screenings. Beginning at age 50 (or earlier if you have a family history) everyone should get their colon checked.
I have regular screenings done due to the fact my sister has colon cancer. My husband did not, as he had no history. However, we should have paid closer attention to the symptoms he was having earlier.
Colon cancer often has no symptoms at all until it’s at an advanced stage. It is 80 percent preventable when detected early. You can reduce your risk through regular screenings.
We are fortunate to have a wonderful clinic locally behind Union Hospital. There is no need to travel out of our area for treatments anymore. We have had a great experience with Tri County Cancer Clinic. They are a loving and caring group of people.
We like the saying, “Colon Cancer is a Pain in the Butt.” Remember, it is treatable and beatable and that is our plan.
Every four minutes someone is diagnosed with colon cancer. On March 4, help raise awareness by participating in national Dress In Blue Day. Wear blue and then tell people why! Encourage your friends, co-workers, and family to get screened. If each of us reach one person, that could be the one life you save.
Becky Welz
Strasburg
Published: February 14, 2011
