Colon cancer is a cancer of the colon – part of the human digestive system – that affects many individuals worldwide. It is a most common type of gastrointestinal cancer. In this article, we will share the story of Raquel who battled colon cancer before 34 years of age. What were the Raquel colon cancer symptoms and how were these symptoms diagnosed? At the end of this article, you will find this all!
Who was Raquel?
Raquel is a young vibrant woman from California who suffered stage 4 colon cancer. She is very conscious of her health, balancing a healthy diet and exercise. She frequently tries diagnosis and treatments to maintain a healthy life. Despite her efforts, she began experiencing diarrhea and irritable bowel symptoms and bloating.
Raquel’s Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer Story
Raquel was a 34 years old young lady from California who battled severe diarrhea and painful bowel movements for four years. She first noticed colon cancer symptoms in 2019. She has to go to the toilet up to 10 times a day in 2019 as shared by Raquel. She does not have any health insurance and that’s why she was stopped from seeing a doctor until 2023. At first she was concerned about not not getting fiber or eating a junky, healthy diet. She suspected irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). When she went for diagnosis of severe painful bowel movements, she was dismissed and told that it was just anxiety. But later she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.
“If I had advocated for myself sooner, my cancer would have been found sooner… Listen to your intuition. You know your body more than anybody else,” she said.
Raquel Colon Cancer Symptoms
Colorectal cancer is slow moving, in the case of Raquel, she could have had cancer for 10 years. With cancer, the symptoms may not be serious until stage three or four. Raquel colon cancer symptoms includes;
- frequent bowel movements and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS);
- diarrhea and difficulty going to the bathroom;
- rectal bleeding;
- persistent abdominal discomfort;
- fatigue and weakness;
- nausea;
- constipation; etc.
Raquel Colon Cancer Symptoms Diagnosis & Treatment
Raquel started chemotherapy and colonoscopy and changed her diet to soft foods such as mashed potato. After her diagnosis, her chances of survival are 20 percent. However, she was determined to beat the odds. With several stages of treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy, chemotherapy and more, she finally recovered to her normal life after some time.
Raquel Story Stood as Awareness of Colorectal Cancer
Raquel shared her story of her colorectal cancer on TikTok and Instagram. Her documented story aims to raise awareness about the rising colon cancer rate in young people and highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy body and listening to your body.
Conclusion
Raquel was a vibrant lady from California who struggled for stage 4 colon cancer. The above article highlights Raquel colon cancer symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, her story as an inspiration for young people.