I received yellow socks today to add to my collection of medical memorabilia. I also received a new bracelet as well as the memory of an additional poke. At one time I had kept track of how many times I have been poked this year, but I lost track along the way; the number is high. I almost forgot - I got pictures of inside my colon to commemorate today's experience! Last week, I had an appointment to schedule my one year colonoscopy in follow up to my initial colonoscopy I had on January 19, 2022. At the time of my initial colonoscopy, I was notified I had Stage 1 colon cancer; a few weeks later, I had a 4.3 cm tumor removed. At this time, my oncologist says I appear to be cancer free. I was lucky. I didn't have to have chemo or radiation. While I thought we would be scheduling a colonoscopy for late January or February, they had an opening today. When given the option of now or February, after asking a couple of questions I proceeded to have the procedure done today. My one year colonoscopy is actually a ten month colonoscopy.
Four polyps were present. The polyps were removed and will be biopsied. My doctor stated based on the presence of the polyps in relation to the time of my previous colonoscopy, he believes I definitely have a genetic predisposition for polyp formation. Due to the presence of the polyps, I will need to have another colonoscopy in one year.
Since I now have a history of colon cancer, phrases like "high risk colon cancer surveillance" are used in my paperwork. I know a history of cancer increases risk, but something about seeing it written, makes it all so real again, even more so than today's procedure for some reason. Seeing it written almost feels like it is a label. Am I high risk? Yes. Cancer will always be a part of my story, but it is not the defining chapter. I have my ups and downs, but is my faith in Christ that defines me and sustains me. As my story continues to be written, my desire is that in all things, both good and bad, that God is glorified.
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