A Diagnosis That Reshaped Our Family
At Thomas Risk Solutions, community isn't just a word — it represents the people and stories that touch our lives. When my wife was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, it challenged our family in ways we never expected. That diagnosis didn't define who she is, but it did push us to learn, adapt, and advocate. This page exists to share what we have learned about colorectal cancer so others feel less alone.
Understanding
Colorectal Cancer Today
Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. The colon, also known as the large intestine, is a long tube at the end of the digestive tract and has four sections (ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid). Rectal cancer affects the rectum — the passage connecting the colon to the anus. Together, these cancers are called colorectal cancer. In the United States, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer for both men and women and remains the second leading cause of cancer-related death overall. For adults younger than 50, it is now the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Early detection makes a huge difference; when the disease is found at stages I–II, the five-year survival rate is roughly 91%, but it declines to 13% for stage IV. Screening tests — such as colonoscopies, stool-based tests and blood tests — can detect cancer early and even prevent cancer by finding and removing polyps before they turn into tumors. Health guidelines encourage average-risk adults to begin screening at age 45.
Stronger
— Not Defined
Every person's experience with cancer is unique. Some people have obvious symptoms, while others have none. Symptoms like blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, persistent fatigue, or unexplained weight loss should be evaluated by a physician. Many people have no symptoms at all; that's why regular screening is so important. What matters most is remembering that individuals facing colorectal cancer are human — resilient, capable, and deserving of dignity.
Our Family's
Journey
Hearing that a loved one has colorectal cancer stops time. For us, treatment involved surgery and chemotherapy; recovery demanded patience, lifestyle changes, and more doctor's visits than we could count. The journey taught us the importance of early detection, good communication with physicians and leaning on our support network. It also reinforced that caring for a patient requires caring for caregivers: spouses, family members, and friends often feel isolated or overwhelmed and need support just as much as those undergoing treatment. Reaching out to loved ones and community resources can help make the process more manageable.
The Role of Insurance
in Cancer Care
Treating colorectal cancer often includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted drugs or immunotherapy, and the specific approach depends on the stage of the cancer. Treatments can be expensive, which makes understanding insurance benefits essential. Under the Affordable Care Act, many private health plans are required to cover recommended colorectal cancer screening tests without out-of-pocket costs. However, costs can vary when a screening colonoscopy becomes diagnostic or when doctors are out of network. It's important to review your policy, ask your insurer about coverage before a procedure and appeal any unexpected bills. Coverage for treatment after diagnosis varies widely by plan. We encourage speaking directly with your insurance provider or agent to avoid gaps in coverage.
Continuing a Life
of Advocacy
Before cancer entered our lives, our advocacy centered on other health causes. Today, we champion colorectal cancer awareness. Screening saves lives, yet one in three adults is not screened as recommended. Rates of colorectal cancer are rising among people under 50, and as of 2026, it has become the leading cause of cancer-related death for adults 50 and younger. By sharing our story and connecting others to resources, we hope to encourage timely screening, healthier lifestyles, and empathy for those living with cancer.
Trusted
Resources
One of the most valuable lessons we learned is that knowledge is power. A single trusted source can provide research-backed information, support networks, and advocacy tools. We encourage families to explore the Colon Cancer Coalition, which offers education on risk factors, screening options, survivorship, and advocacy. Their resources stress that colorectal cancer affects people of all ages and highlight that the disease is now a leading cause of cancer-related death in adults under 50. The Coalition also promotes early screening at age 45 and provides guidance on risk reduction.
coloncancercoalition.org