Signs of colon cancer helped this Nashville woman detect it early

At 44 years old, the last thing Janine expected was a colon cancer diagnosis. The Nashville resident had experienced gastrointestinal issues occasionally for a couple of years, but she brushed them off as job stress or natural changes with age. However, when she started seeing blood in her stool, she knew something was wrong.

"I never thought much of it, but when I started seeing blood, I knew I had to see a doctor," Janine explained.

In December 2023, after her symptoms persisted, she visited a gastroenterologist who immediately scheduled a colonoscopy. The results confirmed rectal cancer—at just 45 years old.

Her treatment plan was aggressive. Janine began four and a half months of chemotherapy, receiving infusions every 14 days. The side effects, including nausea and neuropathy, a condition that causes tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet, making everyday tasks more difficult. Still, she remained determined to exercise, adjusting her routine to match her new reality.

In June 2024, she started six weeks of daily radiation alongside chemotherapy. The radiation left her fatigued. By September, Janine underwent surgery to remove the tumor and was placed with a temporary ileostomy bag.

"It was a huge relief," she shared. "I had my ileostomy reversed just before Christmas, and now, I’m looking forward to a fresh start."

Throughout her journey, Janine had the support of her healthcare team at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown and Tennessee Oncology. From her oncologist, Dr. Joseph Merriman, to her surgeon, Dr. William Polk, she felt cared for every step of the way.

"I can’t speak highly enough about my team. They made me feel heard and supported," she said. "And my husband was my rock through it all."

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month—a time to highlight the importance of early detection, recognize symptoms, and support those affected. Janine is using her recovery to share the importance of talking to a doctor when signs of cancer appear. "Don’t ignore your symptoms. Get checked. And stay strong. Recovery takes time, but it’s worth it,” she said.

She also emphasizes the importance of self-care during treatment. "Even though I had to modify my workouts, staying active helped me feel strong and recover faster,"she added.

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers—especially when caught early. If you're experiencing symptoms like gastrointestinal issues or blood in your stool, don’t wait. Schedule a screening and talk to a gastroenterologist today.