Terminal Cancer Patient Issues Warning About Small Symptom That Could Signal Deadly Illness

Susan stressed that bowel health is often treated as a taboo subject, which can prevent early detection of serious conditions. “I didn’t talk about my bowel habits—who does?” she said. “That’s part of the problem with bowel cancer. People don’t raise the alarm early enough, and it can cost lives.” Indeed, despite her alarming symptoms, early blood and stool tests failed to show abnormalities, and initial consultations with doctors led her to believe she was fine.

The devastating confirmation came after a colonoscopy. “When I woke from the procedure, something felt off. I wasn’t offered anything to eat or drink, and a nurse told me the gastroenterologist would see me shortly. Then he delivered the news: he had located a tumor,” Susan shared. Further imaging, including a CT scan and MRI, revealed that the rectal cancer had metastasized to her uterus, pelvic lymph nodes, and right lung. The diagnosis was terminal: stage 4 bowel cancer, incurable, with the focus now on maintaining quality of life and extending survival as much as possible.

Susan’s message to others is clear and urgent: minor or vague symptoms should never be ignored, and patients must advocate for themselves. “I want people to know the signs. Push for answers if something feels off,” she said. “Even if your blood work is normal, even if doctors say it’s stress, diet, or hormones, trust your instincts. Listen to your body.”

Continue reading…