Hi, I'm Anna and I was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer during a routine check-up.

Unfortunately, cancer has been a part of my life. I lost my mother and my brother to cancer, so when I received my own diagnosis, it hit me hard. I underwent surgery and chemotherapy at a local hospital. The never-ending pain from the treatments led me to stop it, for peace of mind.

Despite the pain and loss I’ve endured, I found optimism and gratitude for my survival and the chance to live fully.

It all started a couple of years back when I submitted a routine bowel screen sample. I had no symptoms; it was just a regular check-up. A colonoscopy was arranged and a tumor was discovered. Then came the news — I had colorectal cancer, stage 3.

I did not make any changes to my lifestyle after diagnosis.

After the diagnosis came the treatment. My doctor laid out his plan for me. It involved surgery (a partial colectomy to remove part of my colon) and chemotherapy as the initial treatment plan.

I had a mix of emotions when the treatment plan was first presented to me. I was scared but also relieved that there was something they could do to fight the cancer. The doctors knew best, and I trusted their recommendation.

However, the pain that followed the treatment was too unbearable and I felt angry at the tough experience I had to face. Hence, despite it being a huge decision, I chose to stop receiving treatment and spare my body from further pain. I felt much happier once the treatment plans stopped, although I felt anxious about making an unusual decision as a cancer patient — to refuse further treatment.

Peripheral neuropathy was a significant side effect I faced, causing numbness and tingling in my hands and feet. My severe reaction to chemotherapy was the worst.

I made the decision to stop chemotherapy, as a way to manage my side effects.

Throughout it all, I never sought a second opinion or looked into alternative treatments. I put my trust in the medical professionals, believing that they knew what was best for me.

And while the treatments took their toll, both physically and emotionally, I never faced any financial difficulties. I consider myself lucky in that regard.

I found myself reaching out to my parents more often. Before, I hardly ever called or texted them. Now, I make an effort to stay connected even when things feel tough.

Looking ahead, I have plans, both for myself and my family. Regular scans and colonoscopies are still part of my life. But I'm grateful that, for now, my status remains as No Evidence of Disease (NED; no sign of cancer).

Travel has always been a passion of mine, and I intend to do lots of it.

My biggest dream is to remain cancer-free, of course. I want to savor the second chance that I've been given. I want to have lots of adventure with my family and friends.

Throughout my journey to recovery a couple of years ago, my biggest fear had been losing my loving husband to motor neuron disease.

He passed away in October 2021, just as I received the all-clear from cancer. I accepted his death since he was finally free of pain.

Despite the pain of loss I endured and the tough battles I faced, I feel optimistic. Optimistic because I'm still here, still fighting. I intend to live and enjoy my life as much as I can.

I will be eternally grateful for being diagnosed so early.

Every diagnosis is different and everyone’s journey is different. Take comfort from those people who support you. Be gentle and kind to yourself. It is okay to cry and feel scared. I will be eternally grateful for surviving my cancer.