Personal Testimonials

Maureen Mulvey: My Story

I was diagnosed with Stage II rectal cancer when I was 42 years old. I had been experiencing related problems for many years, had them checked out, but was told "don't worry, you are too young and healthy to have cancer."

I underwent radiation therapy prior to surgery to shrink the tumor. I also had chemotherapy. I now have a permanent colostomy and well as other complications resulting from the radiation treatment.

While I rejoice to be alive and healthy again, I wish that my cancer had been diagnosed at an earlier stage.

My message is three-fold:

1. While most colon cancer strikes people over age fifty, please be aware that this disease also strikes younger people, especially those with a family history of the disease or related conditions. To those of you with symptoms or with a family history of the disease, regardless of your age, get screened.
2. Doctors, please don't assume that everyone under fifty simply has hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, or a fissure. Refer your patients for appropriate screening for colorectal cancer.
3. To the newly diagnosed, there is life after cancer. Do what needs to be done. Live to play another day!