In 2023, I sought medical help prompted by persistent abdominal cramps and a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT).

After a colonoscopy came the harrowing diagnosis of stage 2 colorectal cancer.

Hearing this left me with feelings of fright, helplessness, and overwhelming worry.

I trusted my doctor's recommendations for a total colectomy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy to treat the cancer, though initially I struggled with feelings of discouragement. I am undergoing chemotherapy now.

Months ago, my friends urged me to obtain a simple fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kit from a local drugstore chain. Prior to this, I had been experiencing persistent abdominal cramps that raised concern. The results of the FIT kit returned positive, prompting me to schedule a follow-up colonoscopy. This procedure led to my diagnosis of stage 2 disease after I sought a second opinion due to insufficient information from my initial doctor.

Despite these emotions, I resolved to make transformative changes in my lifestyle. I had a newfound dedication to exercise more regularly. My dietary habits also changed as I opted for nutritious meals 3 to 5 days a week. Additionally, I took steps to cut down on smoking.

I followed through with my doctor’s recommended treatment plan of a total colectomy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, trusting in the expertise of my care team even though I felt discouraged after finalizing my treatment regimen. As I’m receiving chemotherapy now, I’ve also opted for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

I've been struggling with side effects like fatigue and hair loss, but improving my nutritional habits and self-medicating has helped me cope with them. However, I’m currently facing some financial difficulties, because my insurance plan doesn’t cover the new and experimental immunotherapeutics that are part of my treatment plan.

The lifestyle adjustments that I made after diagnosis have since continued into the treatment phase of my cancer journey. More frequent exercise, a healthier diet and cutting down on cigarettes have been instrumental in bettering my health and well-being.

It’s not just my lifestyle that has transformed, but my personal relationships too. I noticed that I’ve grown significantly closer to my parents and children since we found out I had cancer. I’m also looking forward to moving to our new place soon.

I’m not the kind of guy with dreams of grandeur. I just want to live and retire comfortably. Thoughts of better times in my life have motivated me to push through chemotherapy now before I go through with the total colectomy. The only aspiration I have is to live long enough to see my son get married and have kids of his own.

My biggest fear now revolves around the upcoming surgery, as it entails the removal of my entire large intestine and living with a stoma. I anticipate feeling embarrassed and anxious, worrying about potential odors associated with the stoma. However, I've managed to overcome this fear by engaging in open discussions with my doctors and nurses about how to properly manage the stoma. Additionally, I've confided in my wife about my concerns, finding support and reassurance in her presence.

Today, my emotions remain unchanged and still feel raw, especially because it’s only been months since my diagnosis. These feelings of helplessness, nervousness and worry still linger and haunt me.

It's normal to feel scared and worried. However, it's important to remind yourself that undergoing treatment is for your own good. If not, there could be even more pain in the future.