Let’s talk about something that no one really wants to talk about—but far too many people are facing: colorectal cancer. In this candid and compassionate episode, I’m sharing my personal journey and walking you through what this diagnosis actually means—from symptoms to testing, treatment, and ultimately, remission.

I was 37 years old, healthy, active, and had no family history of colorectal cancer. What started as something minor—a little bleeding I blamed on postpartum hemorrhoids—turned out to be Stage 3 colorectal cancer. And it turned my entire world upside down.

In this episode, we cover:

• What colorectal cancer is and how it starts
• The early symptoms that you should never ignore
• What the testing process and colonoscopy actually look like
• How treatment plans are formed, including surgery, chemo, and more
• My real story—what I went through, what I learned, and where God showed up
• Biblical encouragement and how scripture carried me through the fire
• Practical advice for staying mentally, emotionally, and physically strong

This episode is for anyone facing a diagnosis, supporting someone who is, or just needing to hear truth and encouragement in a season of unknowns.

Important Statistics You Should Know

• Colorectal cancer rates in people under 50 have increased by nearly 50% since the 1990s
• It is now the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among people under 50 in the U.S.
• About 20% of new colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals under 55
• Younger patients are more likely to be diagnosed at advanced stages due to delayed detection
• Early detection saves lives—the five-year survival rate is 91% when caught early
• The recommended screening age has been lowered from 50 to 45

The Personal Side of the Journey

I break down everything you might face if you’re walking through colorectal cancer—from what it actually feels like to hear the words “you have cancer” to the awkward realities of testing and procedures. I also talk about how I wore an ostomy bag, endured surgery, and eventually got the news that I was in remission.

None of this was easy. But with my faith and the promises of God as my foundation, I found strength, even in the hardest moments.

Here are a few of the scriptures that held me together:

• Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
• Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”

Steps You Can Take Now

• Advocate for yourself—if something feels off, speak up
• Get screened as soon as you're eligible
• Move your body and nourish it well
• Find a supportive community of people who will walk with you
• Ground yourself in truth through worship, prayer, and scripture
• Remember that it’s okay to laugh and cry in the same breath—this is hard, and you don’t have to pretend it’s not

Final Encouragement

You are not your diagnosis.

You are not defined by your symptoms or your scars.

You are loved, known, and seen by a God who promises to walk with you through every part of your journey.

You don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you are battling cancer, supporting a loved one, or simply feeling overwhelmed by health concerns—this episode was created to encourage you, inform you, and help you feel seen and supported.

Call to Action

• Subscribe to Thrive Through the Fire so you never miss an episode
• Share this episode with someone who needs practical help or spiritual encouragement
• Reach out to me directly with questions or prayer requests—I would love to support you
• Download my free eBook, Tools 2 Thrive – Cancer Edition, at www.tools2thrive.org

Prayer

Father, thank You for each listener today. Whether they are facing a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or just carrying the fear of the unknown, I pray You would fill their hearts with Your peace. Strengthen their bodies, calm their minds, and remind them that they are never alone. May they know that You are a God who sees, who hears, and who walks with us through the fire. In Jesus’ name, Amen.