Mother-of-two beats the odds to survive stage 4 colon cancer not once, but twice
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[Month] [Day], [Year] – New York Times News
Sherri Rollins, a stay-at-home mom from North Carolina, has shared her story of resilience and offered advice for patients facing a tough diagnosis. Rollins, who was initially dismissed by a local gastroenterologist when she presented with back pain and a lesion on her liver, emphasized the importance of trusting one’s instincts and seeking a second opinion.
In early 2018, Rollins was diagnosed with stage 4 colon Cancer that had metastasized to her liver. Despite undergoing a year’s worth of chemotherapy and surgery, she experienced a setback when the cancer returned in her rectum. Rollins, however, demonstrated unwavering determination and insisted on further investigation, despite regular scans showing no signs of cancer. Her persistence paid off when it was confirmed in March 2022 that the cancer had indeed returned.
Rollins consulted multiple doctors and ultimately chose a gastrointestinal surgeon who offered a temporary ileostomy bag and intraoperative radiotherapy as part of her treatment plan. After three months, the ileostomy was reversed, and Rollins is currently in recovery, gradually getting back to her normal activities. Throughout her journey, Rollins has maintained a positive mindset and emphasized the importance of being one’s own advocate, taking things one step at a time when facing a tough diagnosis.
Despite facing challenges such as neuropathy in her hands from chemotherapy, Rollins continues to push forward and appreciates every day with her family. She hopes that by sharing her story, she can inspire others to advocate for themselves and explore all available treatment options.
Rollins’ experience sheds light on the increasing rates of colorectal cancer, particularly among young people, and underlines the need for early detection and timely treatment. Unhealthy lifestyles and environmental factors are believed to contribute to the rise in colorectal cancer cases among young individuals.
One key issue highlighted by Rollins’ journey is the misdiagnosis or ignorance of symptoms related to colorectal cancer, leading to delayed diagnosis and advanced disease stages. It is crucial for both patients and healthcare professionals to be aware of the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer and to pursue further investigations when necessary.
In terms of treatment, Rollins underwent a range of interventions, including chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and intraoperative radiation. One notable procedure she underwent was an ileostomy, which is a surgical procedure aimed at diverting digested food. Rollins encourages others to speak up and advocate for more treatment options, highlighting the importance of personalized care in cancer management.
Rollins’ story has had a significant impact not only on her life but also on the lives of many others facing similar challenges. Her courage and resilience serve as a reminder to patients to trust their instincts and pursue the best possible care. Additionally, her story serves as a wake-up call for healthcare professionals to listen closely to their patients’ concerns, ensuring that no potential symptoms are overlooked.
The medical community has taken notice of Rollins’ case, and her local gastroenterologist has issued a public apology for dismissing her symptoms initially. While mistakes can happen in medicine, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to acknowledge and learn from them, ensuring that all patients receive the care they deserve.
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