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The article tells the story of Tracy, who experienced stomach problems for years that were ignored. At the beginning of 2015, he was finally referred to a gastroenterologist. A colonoscopy revealed what was initially thought to be hemorrhoids, but further tests and an MRI with a colorectal surgeon revealed he had colon cancer.
Tracy’s biggest fear was needing a colostomy bag.After being told by his first doctor that he would need one, he sought second and third opinions.He eventually accepted the treatment plan from a fourth doctor, which included surgery and chemotherapy.
Adjusting to the colostomy bag was a difficult period for Tracy, impacting his sense of sexuality and self-worth. Despite this, he described himself as an “eternal optimist” and fought to be a source of positivity for his loved ones.
His health struggles extended to his family. On the last day of his chemotherapy, his wife was diagnosed with a rare neurological disease, forcing him into a caregiver role before he had fully recovered. The stress of these health issues led to a period of separation in their marriage, though they eventually reunited.
Tracy believes his cancer diagnosis and the need for a colostomy bag could have been avoided if his earlier symptoms and concerns had been taken more seriously by healthcare professionals.
Now, ten years after his diagnosis, Tracy is cancer-free. He uses social media platforms like tiktok to share his experience and raise awareness about colon cancer, especially its increasing prevalence in young people.He emphasizes his desire to inspire others and finds gratitude even in difficult experiences,believing that what seems negative can be a positive for someone else.