My Gas Smelled Different - Jelena | Colorectal Cancer | The Patient Story
TLDRJuliana, a 34-year-old healthy mother and runner, shares her unexpected journey with colorectal cancer. Initially dismissing symptoms like altered gas and bleeding as diet-related, she later underwent a colonoscopy, which revealed a mass in her rectum. Despite a family history free of cancer, she was diagnosed with an advanced stage of the disease. Juliana underwent a rigorous treatment plan including radiation, oral chemotherapy, surgery, and further chemotherapy. Her tumor responded well to treatment, allowing her to avoid a permanent colostomy. She emphasizes the importance of documenting symptoms and seeking second opinions when necessary. Juliana also highlights the value of online support groups, which provided her with a sense of community and practical advice during her treatment. Now in remission, she advocates for regular check-ups and shares her story to encourage others to be proactive about their health.
Takeaways
- 🏃♀️ The narrator, Juliana, was an active runner and in good health, having completed a half marathon, which made her cancer diagnosis unexpected.
- 👨👧 Juliana is a mother of a 12-year-old daughter and enjoys activities like running and sewing, particularly figure skating costumes for her daughter.
- 💨 Her initial symptom was a change in the smell and potency of her gas, which she initially attributed to diet or digestion issues.
- 🩸 She later experienced bleeding and, after probiotics didn't help, sought medical advice, which eventually led to further investigation.
- 🚫 Juliana was advised to avoid fruits and vegetables before her colonoscopy to ensure a clear view of the colon wall during the procedure.
- 🧪 The colonoscopy revealed a mass in her rectum, and despite her initial thoughts not being about cancer, a biopsy was performed urgently.
- 😢 The diagnosis of cancer was confirmed, and it was severe enough that it couldn't be removed during the colonoscopy, indicating a more advanced stage.
- 🏥 Juliana underwent a series of diagnostic tests, including a CT scan, MRI, rectal ultrasound, and a PET scan to determine the cancer's extent and staging.
- 💊 She received radiation and oral chemotherapy as part of her treatment plan, followed by surgery to remove the tumor and affected lymph nodes.
- 🔁 Post-surgery, Juliana had eight rounds of FOLFOX chemotherapy and later had her ileostomy reversed, returning her to a more normal lifestyle.
- ⏱️ After completing treatment, Juliana entered a period of maintenance and surveillance, with regular check-ups and scans to monitor her health.
- 🗓️ She advises others to keep track of symptoms and seek second opinions if necessary, emphasizing the importance of persistence in seeking a diagnosis.
- 🤝 Juliana found social media to be a valuable tool for connecting with others going through similar experiences, providing a support network during her treatment.
Q & A
What was Juliana's initial reaction when she first experienced symptoms?
-Juliana initially thought that the change in her gas and the potent smell might be due to something she was eating and tried taking probiotics to help with it.
Why did Juliana decide to stop taking probiotics?
-She stopped taking probiotics after experiencing bleeding when she went to the bathroom, which she associated with the probiotics.
How did Juliana's physical examination contribute to the discovery of her condition?
-During her physical examination, Juliana mentioned her symptoms to the nurse practitioner, who then advised her to call the office if the bleeding started again. This led to further investigation and eventually the diagnosis.
What dietary restrictions were placed on Juliana before her first colonoscopy?
-Juliana was advised not to eat fruits and vegetables for two days leading up to the colonoscopy to ensure her colon was clean and free of residue that could interfere with the examination.
What was the significance of finding a mass during Juliana's colonoscopy?
-The discovery of a mass in her rectum during the colonoscopy, followed by biopsies, led to the suspicion of cancer, which was later confirmed.
What was the initial stage of cancer that Juliana was aware of after her first set of tests?
-After the first set of tests, including a CT scan and an ultrasound, it was determined that Juliana's cancer was at least stage three.
What was the treatment plan that Juliana underwent after her diagnosis?
-Juliana's treatment plan included 28 days of radiation along with oral chemotherapy, followed by a period of rest, and then eight rounds of FOLFOX chemotherapy.
How did the tumor's response to radiation affect Juliana's surgery?
-The tumor shrank in the correct direction due to radiation, allowing the surgeon to remove it while preserving enough of the rectum to avoid a permanent colostomy, opting instead for a temporary ileostomy.
What was the outcome of Juliana's ileostomy reversal surgery?
-The ileostomy reversal surgery was successful, and Juliana no longer had to use a bag to collect waste from her small intestine.
How often does Juliana now go for follow-up checks after completing her treatment?
-Juliana now goes for follow-up bloodwork and checks with her oncologist once a year, and she has a colonoscopy every five years.
What advice does Juliana give to others who might be experiencing similar symptoms?
-Juliana advises keeping track of symptoms, seeking a colonoscopy if symptoms persist, and getting a second opinion if necessary. She also emphasizes the importance of having a support group, which can be found through online communities.
Outlines
😱 Unexpected Cancer Diagnosis
Juliana, a 34-year-old healthy mom and runner, was in top shape when she experienced unusual symptoms like altered gas and bleeding. Initially, she attributed these to diet changes and tried probiotics without success. After consulting with a nurse practitioner, she underwent a colonoscopy which revealed a mass in her rectum. Despite her family's lack of cancer history and her active lifestyle, she was diagnosed with cancer, which was a shocking and life-changing revelation.
😢 The Emotional Impact and Diagnostic Journey
Following the discovery of a mass, Juliana underwent a series of tests including a CT scan, MRI, rectal ultrasound, and a PET scan to determine the extent of her cancer. The emotional toll was immense as she grappled with the possibility of an advanced cancer stage. Her initial thoughts were that she might have a digestive disorder, but the reality of a cancer diagnosis was devastating. She faced the challenge of informing her family, making decisions about ongoing house construction, and preparing for a rigorous diagnostic and treatment process.
🏥 Treatment Plan and Recovery
After a confirmed cancer diagnosis, Juliana embarked on a treatment plan that included radiation and oral chemotherapy. She took a two-month break post-radiation to allow the tumor to shrink further, which prevented her from needing a permanent colostomy. She underwent surgery to remove the tumor and affected lymph nodes, followed by eight rounds of FOLFOX chemotherapy. After a period of recovery, she had her ileostomy reversed and entered a phase of maintenance and surveillance, with regular check-ups and scans. Juliana emphasizes the importance of documenting symptoms and advocating for oneself when facing persistent health issues.
🤝 The Power of Support Networks
Throughout her cancer journey, Juliana found solace and support in connecting with others facing similar challenges, particularly through social media. This virtual support group provided her with a sense of community and shared experience, allowing her to exchange advice, vent frustrations, and discuss the nuances of treatment. She highlights the value of such connections in coping with the emotional and physical demands of cancer treatment and recovery.
Mindmap
Keywords
💡Colorectal Cancer
💡Half Marathon
💡Colonoscopy
💡Biopsy
💡Radiation Therapy
💡Chemotherapy
💡Ileostomy
💡FOLFOX
💡CT Scan
💡MRI
💡Social Media Support
Highlights
Juliana, a 34-year-old healthy mom and runner, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer unexpectedly.
Her initial symptoms included a change in gas and subsequent bleeding, which she initially attributed to diet.
After probiotics failed to help and bleeding resumed, medical tests were initiated.
A colonoscopy revealed a mass in Juliana's rectum, which led to a biopsy.
Despite being in peak physical condition, Juliana was shocked to learn she had an advanced stage of cancer.
Diagnostic tests including CT scan, MRI, and PET scan were conducted to determine the cancer's staging.
Juliana underwent 28 days of radiation and oral chemotherapy to prepare for surgery.
The tumor responded well to radiation, allowing for a less invasive surgery and a temporary ileostomy.
Post-surgery, Juliana had eight rounds of FOLFOX chemotherapy, followed by a period of rest and recovery.
She had her ileostomy reversed two months after her final chemotherapy session.
Juliana now undergoes annual check-ups and surveillance, including bloodwork and colonoscopies.
She advises keeping a detailed record of symptoms and advocating for a colonoscopy if symptoms persist.
Juliana found social media to be a valuable tool for connecting with others going through similar experiences.
She emphasizes the importance of having a support system and sharing experiences with others facing cancer.
Juliana's story highlights the unpredictability of cancer and the importance of proactive health checks.
Her experience with colorectal cancer at a young age challenges the misconception that it only affects older individuals.
Juliana's active lifestyle did not prevent her from developing cancer, emphasizing the need for regular screenings.
She encourages seeking second opinions and being persistent with healthcare providers when symptoms are concerning.
Transcripts
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