A blog about Rectal Cancer.
You just got diagnosed with Rectal Cancer… now what?
I created this blog as a resources for those going through a similar situation that I went through. Whether you or someone you know was diagnosed with rectal cancer, hopefully there is something in here to help.
I am not a doctor. I am simply a person who went through cancer and learned a thing or two along the way.
Blog
When I was diagnosed with Stage IIIB rectal cancer at 28 years old I was shocked, devastated, and… embarrassed. For a while I told people I had colorectal cancer. Softens the blow a little, right? At one of my appointments my oncologist stopped me mid-sentence and said, “Rectal cancer. You have rectal cancer”. From then on I decided to just say the damn word.
Rectal Cancer.
Just go ahead and say it…
FAQs
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According to the American Cancer Society, the number of new rectal cancer cases in the United States in 2024 is estimated to be 46,220. This includes 27,330 cases in men and 18,890 in women
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A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation or a more-frequent need to pass stool.
A feeling that the bowel doesn't empty completely.
Abdominal pain.
Dark maroon or bright red blood in stool.
Narrow stool.
Weight loss that happens without trying.
Weakness or fatigue.
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The exact cause of rectal cancer is unknown, but there are many factors that can increase the risk of developing it, including family history, age, lifestyle, diet, genetics... and more.
Resources
There is a lot of information out there. I’ve compiled a list of helpful resources that were invaluable to me throughout my cancer process.