Medical Gaslighting: My Colon Cancer Symptoms were Dismissed Over & Over Again! | The Patient Story

[@ThePatientStory]

Want to share your story 👉 www.thepatientstory.com/share-your-story/?KZbin&

[@Portia620]

My aunt never had history so get the colonoscopy done and don’t wait! At home test can miss this and I read all about it recently!

[@rosemaryhuegel9297]

I am 73 it’s old and it just seems that colon cancer has definitely been on the rise and it’s hitting young people and a lot is stage three or four I think it’s because the additives and preservatives they put in our food. I think they need to change the laws in America, because other countries would not allow all of the add-ons that we have here. I don’t know if anyone will agree with that, but that is my honest opinion.

[@mycharmedunicorn8715]

I agree but I don’t think it’ll ever happen. I think the United States of America has changed into becoming a money pit. And it’s the one who can pay the most that wins. And I believe all of our FDA, NIH, CDC, etc are corrupt and they sell out to the highest bidder. We have become a very sad country. The Kraft agency they are not allowed to sell the stuff they sell here in the USA in the United Kingdom in Europe. So why don’t they change the way they do their food for our country? They don’t have to and they don’t care

[@UnderHisWings0322]

You are exactly right and we all agree. But it won't change. America has only gotten worse and are poisoning us even harder these days. Thats why we are all sick and they are making tons of $$ from it. Its sad. We didn't ask to be born here.

[@JenJen0582]

I totally agree with you

[@funtimefranky]

I made this exact comment 6 months or so ago on another channel. A couple of people in the public eye were diagnosed and both were vegans and apparently they ate a healthy whole food diet. I wonder what they are spraying on the fruit and veg? I eat mostly organic now as I had a polyp removed 2 years ago. I currently have symptoms and am waiting for a colonoscopy and MRI. 😩

[@maureenmiller-delisle2505]

My oncologist said he’s seeing a huge rise in colon cancer! I have a different cancer but my daughter asked him if he was seeing a rise in colon cancer!

[@ablereaders]

Wow! I am so sorry this happened to you! Your story is very similar to mine. I had 3 children, aged 42 & told over and over that I was "too young, thin, & heathy" for a colonoscopy. When it was finally diagnosed, 5 years after my first symptoms, I had a lemon sized tumor in my rectum. Fun times! Happily, I am now ten years post treatment and so far, cancer free. I certainly hope your story helps physicians listen to their patients and be more thorough and less dismissive.

[@SandandGravelTruth]

Most likely it was parasites. Look up pubmed article ivermectin & colon cancer.

[@alisashepherd8702]

I was 44 and diagnosed with stage 3c colon cancer. It was in 9 lymph nodes. My story sounds a lot like yours. I had Folfox with terrible nausea and neuropathy etc. The scans were tough for me also. I have now been cancer free for 15 years!!! Every day is a bless blessing! I have learned to be grateful for everything. It has enhanced my life! I always say cancer is one of the worst and best things that has ever happened to me.

[@SandandGravelTruth]

Google Ivermectin for colon cancer. There are pubmed articles on it. It causes apoptosis in colon cancer cells. I used it when I was told I had colon cancer in May. Turns out it was parasites.

[@heidi2166]

What is folfox?

[@bluesmoke8826]

​@@heidi2166 Chemotherapy

[@pizzamonster8216]

I am 56, learned my colon cancer before xmas, same as you, i got stage 3c, t4a, n2b, absolutely devastated

[@AZ-le3zy]

Amén!

[@mrs8792]

My Husband was a widower. His wife of 30 years died from colon cancer. She was ignored by her Doctor and was too damn sick to deal with everything. I know Robert did what he could to help her. By the time the cancer was caught, she was in stage 4 and she died. This is just so heartbreaking.

[@Portia620]

🙏😭🤦‍♀️. Happens often!

[@BunnyTree]

Im 47 and just did the colonoscopy. The prep wasnt bad at all for me. The removed 4 tubular adenomas and stated they were pre-cancer. So i am glad I kept my appointment!

[@31michelle64]

And you will quite probably be on an every 5 yr schedule, maybe even more frequently in the first few years.

[@DIanaCOL4224]

My husband died from colon cancer in 2014. He went to his doctor over and over with complainta that should have been red flags. But his dr. Said oh your too young for colonoscopy. Then when he was finally taken serious his dr. Said i will send you for ultrasound then when you come back i will tell you see its just ibs. Instead it was stage 4. I was left to raise our 9 year old son by myself. The medical community needs to be able to make these call instead of some person behind a computer screen instead of the insurance industry.

[@Starfish2145]

I hope you sued that aaaahole doctor!

[@masterDarts4188]

It's so disheartening to hear stuff like this. I hate that doctors are brushing this off.

[@Littletreehugger]

Deeply sorry for your profound loss. Sending love 🤍

[@martinlutherkingjr.5582]

How old was he at diagnosis?

[@MMacAttack]

So sorry for your loss. Your story reminds us to advocate for ourselves to have our symptoms taken seriously and don’t stop till a doctor does. Blessings to you & your son ❤️

[@Suzite]

I feel the need to address the patient’s statement about the possibility of having to have a “poop bag.” I want people to understand that having an ileostomy or colostomy sounds terrible but many of us lead very active (ski, run, long distance cycling etc.) and fulfilling lives.

[@Jennifer-il7ev]

I had surgery on my colon and had a bag on. It was scary but you realize it does not stop you from living life to the fullest!!!❤️

[@royferguson2297]

I have has a colostomy bag since 2007 has not stopped me doing anything.

[@Portia620]

It’s better than death!!! Truths!!! Young people have these too.

[@chickenmomma9239]

People need to care about the increased rate of cancers. Our environment matters!@@Portia620

[@SusanBesemer]

​@@royferguson229723:14

[@kathymills9572]

I worked in Endoscopy in the early 2000's. We found colon cancer in a 29 year old female who looked the picture of good health. Thankfully, the Dr's I worked with realized this young lady needed to be scoped. She did well with her treatment. Her father was checked afterwards and colon cancer was found in him, also. There is no typical person that gets colon cancer. We all need to be proactive about our health!

[@BloodSweatandFears]

What exactly do we have to say to be taken seriously enough for a scan? Please 🙏

[@dpsuperduper]

This very well told story will help many people. Barbara is an exceptional person and thank you for sharing your story. I had my entire colon removed 30 yrs ago, which means the surgery is NOT reversible. I had an ostomy bag the entire time. I suffered with ulcerative colitis at age 25 and on and off for 11 yrs and my Dr said there was cell disorganization and my insurance then approved of the surgery. It didn't cost me anything. Now after 30 years my stoma looks great because I'm taking care of myself by exercising and eating healthy and getting enough sleep. I don't take any medications, vitamins or supplements. I'll be 67 in July. david

[@ValerieGriner]

Wow! That is great! I'll be 67 in May.

[@lynnepopash2292]

Although mine wasn't cancer, it turned into complicated diverticulitis and a perforated colon and an eventual resection. I too was dimissed with IBS, constipation, etc., until I ended up in the ER and hospitalized. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@moeksiepoeksie]

I also suffer from divertculitis. Don't always know how to handle it. Sometimes i feel nobody realy cares.

[@SandandGravelTruth]

Probably parasites. Lots of parasite groups on Facebook.

[@loiseywillis3997]

My friend was 20 years older than me. We ran together in the evenings. I have Crohns Disease and one day she told me she wasn’t feeling right and thought she may have it. She went to her doctor who blew it off. I’m a nurse and encouraged her to see some else. Unfortunately, she woke up vomiting and thought she had the stomach flu. It was end stage colon cancer and she passed away a few months later. Thank you for saving lives and sharing your story.

[@rebeccaoprea9917]

😢

[@RubyTuesday-yr5gl]

I’m so sorry and it’s sad! They ar3 doing me the same way! They have blew me off knowing I had the pre cancerous polyps. I go to my procedure tomorrow and I’m scared because I know I’m sick. I have lost a lot of weight and that’s another reason I’m getting the upper stomach procedure. Take care and God bless ❤

[@rawpotatoes3785]

I'm sorry for the loss of your friend.

[@baconman2.052]

​@@RubyTuesday-yr5gl how are you doing now?

[@rochellewagner9953]

😢😢😢

[@aliciasavino9809]

Thanks' so much for sharing your story.....I worked in the medical field for 39 years and learned to be very assertive with doctors. I learned a lot of good but also I saw a lot wrong. If i can give a little advice to anyone....... do not take the doctor's' word as final.... keep researching yourselves ask demand answers.. I became almost alergic to see any doctor.... eating healthy.!!!! if you dont feel 100 % find out why... God bless you

[@ValerieGriner]

Great advice! I'm currently being gaslighted by my FP...even though I have NINE biomarkers out of normal range on all of my labs...some that are crucial.

[@leedsman54]

My daughter had this at 21 years old, and sadly died from it. She’d had some bleeding and her doctor said it was possibly a tear and to go back if it continued. The doctor, who was very upset and in tears when daughter died, said the idea of cancer never really entered her head at that age. YOU ARE NEVER TOO YOUNG!

[@carolbruno7731]

I'm so sorry - yes who would think someone so young would have colon cancer. It's seems to be getting younger & younger of a disease. I'm so sorry on your loss.

[@ykook7000]

Doctors are ridiculous they should know by now symptoms are symptoms no matter what the age and could still happen ! Sorry for your loss

[@annwithoutane9432]

Vaccines

[@djkenny1202]

@@annwithoutane9432there’s no vaccine for cancer. And, vaccines are not the reason for it.

[@lissyperez4299]

❤💐

[@lisaworkman4293]

You are very lucky to be here,I wish all the people who I lost were still here! Embrace life,enjoy those kids,they need you! Best wishes!!

[@NFLWifeClub]

She is relatable, and I am so happy that this KZbin page popped up. I needed this! Thank you for sharing your story. It was truly inspiring!

[@Nana_D75]

God bless you! I can relate to the gaslighting experience. Turns out I have RA. I was told I have cancer twice (I didn’t but boy is that stressful). I was told I had Lupus. I do not. My rheumatologist at the time told me I was fat and I should lose weight. I cried every time I saw her. I stopped going. I had surgery. I lost 120 lbs. I still felt like crap. A few years later I was told about a new rheumatologist. OMG was that a life changing experience. Turns out I have rheumatoid arthritis that doesn’t show up on normal blood tests. But, I do respond well to the RA treatment. I’m told that happens 20% of the time. That’s so many people but my previous doctors would not even take me seriously because mine didn’t show on the traditional testing. Medical gaslighting does exist!!! I’m so thankful to have found a doctor that listened!!!

[@lisanapier3889]

Shes so honest sharing her story. This is and will help so many others and its saving lives 🙏 ❤❤ shes a strong woman being a mom a wife a woman we look after everyone else and we have to remember to really look after ourselves just as much xx

[@stephanieo6252]

She's exhausting to listen too

[@lisanapier3889]

@@stephanieo6252 a lesson in turning judgement to compassion. The message is so much more powerful than focusing on anything other than that. Many blessings so much strength to any one who is faced with cancer or caring for loved ones who are 🙏💗

[@user-gr6xz7ri8b]

Love your energy! I know the feeling as a breast cancer survivor. Once you hear the diagnosis you become someone new. You will never forget that moment. You were very smart about who you informed. Good luck to you.

[@lindagiddes4551]

Your story was fantastic, if it saves just one persons life then your a hero

[@justineball9511]

I was in my thirties when I was diagnosed with bowel cancer. A third of my large bowel and a small portion of my small bowel removed. I was having that not right feel and the gp kept saying depression. After a mental fog messing up at work and leaving in tears. I went to a walking clinic. The female gp listened and did blood work. Colonoscopy with in a week. Found cancer and before fully awake was wheeled off for a full scan. You have to advocate and push if you don’t feel right. ❤️❤️ you’re amazing to get this out there.

[@walterwally983]

Thank you for all these testimonials ❤ Its a great way to use KZbin. They really help so many people❤

[@erica_0612]

Thank you for sharing your story and for your honesty.

[@ThePatientStory]

Thank you for watching!

[@fadedglory1045]

My son was 34 ish when his doctors dismissed his symptoms. Change your diet, stop dairy, eat vegetarian, all of it.. for years. Same story. He thought he needed a job change he got up at 4 AM to sit a certain way and drink coffee so he could h e. BM so he could go to work. Long story short when he got to the point he just could breath he couldn’t poop and was exhausted he went to Orlando to find a decent doctor ( he was 38) .. a week later a colonoscopy and a diagnosis stage 4 colon cancer with Mets. He was dead 2 years later weeks before he would have turned 40 .. because he died my next sons doctor took his symptoms seriously and he was found to have stage 2 colon cancer. What a frigging mess our medical system is

[@ThePatientStory]

Thank you for sharing your son's story. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of medical teams listening to patients. I'm sorry for your loss, and I am so glad your other son was able to get a different outcome! If you ever want to share your voice on our platform, please message me - [e-mail]. Your message is a powerful one and could save other lives. Warmly, Stephanie

[@fadedglory1045]

@@ThePatientStory thank you. 🙏

[@mariazglinicki4450]

I'm so very sorry for your loss. What a tragedy. Thankfully, your other son was checked, and they found the cancer. What a relief that he survived.❤

[@TurkishBenAirsoft]

Ive got stage 4 bowel cancer im 43. CT scans have been good and doctor was very impressed at last appointment. Cant be cured but hopefully can comtinue being controlled and get a few more years out of me. Was diagnosed at xmas.

[@janelleabbott2227]

Hope you can keep it under control for many years!!

[@calila650]

How did you find out? Did you have any symptoms? I hope you do get many more years

[@TurkishBenAirsoft]

@calila650 I kept being sick last year and had bad stomach cramps and loose stools. At first I thought it was a lactose intolerance/food alergy. Hospital put a camera down my throat and said I had a small hernia bottom of my throat. They then tried putting a camera up my bottom but I threw up the bowel prep stuff and they couldnt see inside. They then gave me a different bowel prep and I threw that up and they couldn't see again. I was working in away for a week in December had horrific stomach pain and couldnt go to the toilet just tiny bits coming out. I left early on the Friday and rang an ambulance on the Sunday. They done a CT at the hospital and found it all. Shame they didnt do that first. I had a stoma bag fitted 6th December. Colon tumour had shrunk by 50% on my 3rd CT scan I forgot to ask what it was like on my latest one but my dr said my results are amazing better than they could have hoped. I was extremely ill in Jan when I last see him and I said "Did you think I was on my last legs in Jan?" He replied "We was extremely concerned". Im not on 3 weekly chemo instead of 2 so thats a lot nicer.

[@calila650]

@@TurkishBenAirsoft thank you for responding, wow you’ve been through so much. I’m glad to hear you’re making improvements! Have you thought about sharing your story on KZbin? Is it ok if I pray for you?

[@TurkishBenAirsoft]

@calila650 Yeah I will do a video this week worth doing if it helps a few people. I think the thing is I didnt fit the age bracket for bowel cancer but apparently its becoming really quite common especially in the states. That would be nice if you could thankyou. X

[@MyMerryMessyGermanLife]

I hear so much that many are gaslighted, ignored and dismissed when they go into the doctor with symptoms and want to be checked for cancer. It’s unacceptable!! So many are getting cancer these days, it seems to almost be common. Why is it such an imposition to these doctors to just do a cat scan?! It’s not a big deal.

[@JillShinn-x8z]

I have always had the belief that our emotions make us ill. Every part of the body is attached to an emotion. God bless you

[@pacoandellie]

thank you for sharing your story and for being so strong to beat the cancer. You are an inspiration.

[@codycampbell1211]

My story is so similar, I'm sorry you went through this. I am under 40, my dad had colon cancer in his 40's. It took years where doctors repeatedly prescribed creams for my itching (no bloody stools). I had pain too but had lived with it and never thought anything of it. Then one doc recommended a colonoscopy. Found stage 3, one lymph. Did a round of folfox, just had my 1 yr follow up and doing well.

[@515051506969]

Hello I read your comment, I was wondering if you could elaborate your sighns and symptoms a little more, you mentioned something about itchy and they prescribed you cream could you please explain a little more thank you

[@HopeofGlory-qx4lk]

🫶🏽🤍

[@LightBrownSugar]

Why & w here were you itching?

[@brendachristy1813]

Girl your brave and strong, and i have the most respect for you. Life deals us curve balls once in a while but yours is not a common one . chin up and smile we all love you and will pray for your recovery.

[@ShermanChin]

Thank you for sharing your story. Stay strong and I hope your recovery journey is smooth. 🙏

[@jessiedoggie1942]

She's got a great sense of humor and brutally honest. I like that since I'm also a fellow New Yorker. Here's my story. My wife is a stage 3b colon cancer survivor. It happened suddenly on Valentine's Day 2013 when she woke me up in the middle of the night and told me that she had excruciating pain in her abdomen. We went to our local hospital's ER where they did a CT scan, found a mass in her pelvis, and transferred her to another hospital for surgery. By the end of that day they had removed a tumor at her ileocecal valve and did a double shotgun resection. It was stage 3b and she started FOLFOX chemo soon afterward and stayed on it for 6 months except that she stopped the platinum drug after 4 months due to increasing neuropathy. CT scans were negative for years afterward and eventually stopped. She still has the neuropathy in her toes but no other issues. Prior to the Valentine's Day event she had no symptoms at all But since the tumor was in the ileum which is much smaller diameter than the colon, it must have gotten totally blocked and caused the pain. Unusual I think for colon cancer to present at that site. Reply

[@Valleybeautiful]

My husband who is battling stage 3 throat cancer also has epilepsy. we are sure there's a connection since his epilepsy and all his symptoms started at the same time and he's been healthy his entire life up until mid 50's. no doctor will listen to us. Worse still, he had a series of profound absence seizures that started with a grand mal and repeated vomiting and ended up in the ER on the advice of his oncology on call doctor. he had a classic seizure right in front of the ER doctors eyes. he said he was sending him home with no treatment....nothing to stop the repeated seizures "because he couldn't even be sure that was a seizure". mind you, he knew my husband is a diagnosed epileptic under the care of a neurologist. when i asked him what in the world that was if it wasn't a seizure, he said it was no different than a kid who stares off into space. my husband was unable to speak or respond to his environment for over a minute and was speaking gibberish (aphasia). this is how horrible and severe the gaslighting gets.

[@eloisemarie5219]

These Drs so readily refuse to diagnose. I'm sorry.

[@susanmonty791]

Sometimes it’s genes, pollution, stress, pesticides, and many other things. You could be the picture of health. Stress is a killer

[@paulasanz9600]

Loved your video thank you so much I won’t move my colonoscopy appointment again I’ll go on January 🙏💫 Love your energy and attitude about your results ☀️💫It makes me very happy that you are doing great 🙏🙏

[@andreah6379]

Even at 67, I am still shocked how quickly anyone's life can change on a dime. Wow. You KNOW your body. Trust your instincts. Do some research. Prepare for the worst but push to see the experts. Denial is not good.

[@lyndahudson5287]

Thank you for that statement , I will go elsewhere to hear from experts in this field. I am concern and my gut is telling me to go elsewhere since those doctors work together as a team.

[@douglaspage2398]

I don't know why doctors do this, but they do. I had a different problem, chest pain, dizziness, nausia, arrhythmia, and later, blackouts. I would arrive at the ER by ambulance, they would run a few tests, tell me i was fine, and send me home, the follow up eith the cardiologist went pretty much the same. This went on for over a year and a half, until another blackout gave me two black eyes, and rug burn all over the side of my face. After my appointment with the cardiologist (didn't bother going back to the ER this time, i had only left the ER 27 hours earlier, still arrythmic), the doctor sent me home with a Holter moniter for 2 weeks. When the results came back. I was rushed to surgery to install a pacemaker. It seems that my heart had flatlined several times for 5 to 8 seconds due to an electrophysiological problem.

[@sheffield99]

4 weeks ago, i was told i have Colon Cancer. I have 2 tumors in my bowel. One in my rectosigmoid area and one in my transverse colon. I'll have surgery in 2 weeks and will have 3/4 of my bowel removed in a procedure called a Deloyers procedure. Im 40. I likely started developing the cancer in my late 30s. My most noticable symptom was mucousy blood in my stool in the morning. I now know thats because one of the tumors was bleeding and the other wasnt. I dont have Lynch syndrome, i dont have FAP. The surgeon said its just bad luck i have two at my age. Ive never smoked, i dont drink, i will admit that i am overweight. However, i do wonder if preservatives in our foods now plays a part in younger people getting colon cancer?

[@ThePatientStory]

Hi @sheffield99. I am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. We are trying to cover more colon cancer stories to help bring awareness to other patients. Would you be interested in sharing your story? If so, are you able to fill out this intro survey thepatientstory.com/share-your-story/ We are thinking of you!

[@NN-hs3uv]

I think microplastic in our Environment and food is a big issue

[@kristenarndt9015]

I have bloody mucus in my stool and found out today, from my GI, that it has moderately high levels of calprotectin (white blood cells) in it as well. I'm really getting worried.

[@sheffield99]

@kristenarndt9015 I suggest that any appointments you go to then take another person who can take notes for you. Trust me, you'll forget some things. I've had my bowel resected, I'm at home recovering, and I don't need Chemo. My cancer was caught early so surgery was all that was needed. As I mentioned before my main symptom was mucousy blood in my stool. The blood was darker in color - not bright red.

[@kristenarndt9015]

@sheffield99 thank you for the suggestion. My blood is also darker and not bright red. I've had other symptoms for a couple of years, too: extreme fatigue, anemia, bloating, occasional abdominal pain, occasional nausea before a bowel movement, constipation, feeling off in every part of my being (physically, mentally, and emotionally), with the newest being blood and calprotectin in my stool. I should be having a short notice video chat appointment with my GI to discuss my stool sample results and what the plan is going forward.

[@Emily-fo2xo]

It is sad to say this is the norm in the US medical system. My mom had momogram. The Dr lost the exam result. My mom called every 3 days asking for status. 0 callbacks ! She went to another Dr and the lump was cancerous and breast was removed. My mom's sister also complained with many cancer symptons. The Dr told her to exercise. Months later it was too late. The cancer spread.

[@annac9534]

I’m sorry that your mom and her sister had to deal with this. I agree with you, the US medical system is wholly ridiculous and atrocious. We pay an arm and a leg for mediocre care and we’re often told (especially as women) that our symptoms are anxiety. I have my own experiences with being dismissed and dealing with condescending health care professionals. There needs to be an integral shift in US Healthcare.

[@31michelle64]

😢 I'm so sorry

[@moeksiepoeksie]

My brother died in July, without knowing he had cancer. He was turn away from hosoital 2x, in the last month, with the message: keep carry on with your diet! He couldn't take water in properly.😭

[@azpersonal]

Omg so sorry ❤

[@suzannealdridge1404]

HOW DEVIANT CAN HUMANS BE TO EACH OTHER, SORRY FOR THE LOSS.....THANK GOODNESS FOR THE GOOD SOULS, my partner is in the same place as youe brother...

[@TheHelenhunter]

How did you find out about it? (If it's not too insensitive to ask) at least you're a good sibling. I went through ovarian cancer and my family doesn't care.

[@suzannealdridge1404]

@@TheHelenhunter That's Disgusting, you poor person, my partners got stomache/bowel cancer and his family can't wait for him to die, strange world we live in, full of uncaring people.

[@Ashy5000]

If he was young which I'm assuming he was. There will be an autopsy to provide an answer for cause of death. That's where they typically find undiagnosed cancers etc. @@TheHelenhunter

[@TheSaltySiren]

Oof! My Dad is prone to polyps, and had large B cell nonhodgekins lymphoma. He was told to warn all of us kids that we are all at a higher risk for colon cancer. (I’m not sure exactly how that relates to lymphoma, but I’m also not a doctor.) Since finding this out, I had my first colonoscopy. The prep was horrible, but it sure beats the possibility of having colon cancer. I had one polyp removed, and I’m good for the next 10 years. However, I will do this again in 5-7 years.

[@jessamalala6203]

Same, his is probably NHB folicular lymphoma. My doctor told me that “Polyps are just like benign little tumor, they turned into malignant ones in some cases” Is really good you made the decision to be on top of it. All the best for you all.

[@31michelle64]

I'm on a every 5 year program because of family history alone. Not my favorite thing to do, but I'm almost 60, still have no cancer & have been scoped 6 times to date

[@Ashy5000]

Did you get tested for lynch syndrome? It's essentially a genetic mutation which makes people more susceptible to all kinds of cancers, but especially colorectal.

[@patriciaratchford2826]

I know what the scanxiety is like! I had pancreatic cancer. I have to have scans every 6 months. It really does change your life. ❤

[@michaellinkroum4803]

Did you catch it early or were you getting symptoms?

[@vivaciousom5347]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I wish you continued health.

[@RachelHarder-rp8io]

I’m going thru this rn !! I’m 40 smoked 26yrs just recently quit. Developed tinnitus, floaters & a knot behind my ear 3 yrs ago. now I’ve got multiple swollen nodes in my neck a small knot growing on my gum & a larger one directly behind my throat & STILL GET DISMISSED!!! I’ve cried pleaded & begged for a biopsy. I know it’s cancer & get dismissed every time. I got an apt dec 1st & 11th w/new docs & hope to God someone cares to do something. I have 4 boys & a family I love dearly but can’t get help. Docs think I’m crazy if I mention cancer & I now know that’s what it is. For 9mo’s my lymph nodes /cheeks, jaws, neck been slowly swelling. I’ve lost all faith in the healthcare system. It’s ridiculous how often docs gaslight, misdiagnosis & dismiss patients, especially women!! 😢

[@missdiagnosis2530]

I’m praying that you get ethical doctors to help you. I went to jail trying to get help at an ER, I had mrsa! This healthcare system has gone down the toilet

[@RachelHarder-rp8io]

@@missdiagnosis2530 thank u it means a lot.🥰 healthcares a joke…Mrsa’s nothing to mess with! Jail’s overkill, wtf ? I’ve had staff threaten me bc I left ama but I know my rights…I was diagnosed w/POP @ 27 after seeing 8 docs! My insides were so bad when I finally found 1 to run the right tests. I’m still a mess. I’ve Had 4 surgeries, 3 within 4 mo’s this past may. I worked in the field & know enough but I know my body more. I’ve been hanging on a wing & a prayer. Cancer runs in my fam. 5 had it or died from it on my mawmaw’s side. My cousins daughter’s 1 of them @6 from germ cell cancer. The ent I saw for this said I’m asking for Taco Bell @ mcds when I pleaded for a biopsy which blew my mind bc u can c & feel all this. There should be strict laws against this crap! Something definitely needs to change.

[@missdiagnosis2530]

We have to report every provider that neglects us, sanctions will come but we have to be persistent ❤

[@RachelHarder-rp8io]

@@missdiagnosis2530 I’ve got a long list ! 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@S.b.k774]

Please if you can go & see a private doctor the same thing happened to my sister who I lost this year I pray that your isn’t cancer 🤲❤️🤲🤗

[@sarahbinns4608]

Thankyou for sharing your personal story.

[@robertmunoz4926]

Thank you for sharing! I have a colonoscopy July 1 i’m 61 years old..you’re a brave woman and very articulate.. i wish you good health and cancer free!

[@penelopebirnstingl]

thank you for this. I had surgery 5 months ago and am still struggling, although being told that everything is 'normal'. what does that mean? I am traumatised by the whole thing. not listened to, etc. I have more investigations coming up. you have given me courage to insist on answers.!! good luck with your life.

[@TheCelestialVoice11]

I had pretty much the same scenario with Colon Cancer, where I’d had a colonoscopy 3 years earlier, and they just kept saying it was IBS. I had to keep telling people about the pain I was experiencing, and finally, I found a gastroenterologist who was willing to listen. Within a month and a half, I’d had a Colonoscopy, was diagnosed, and had 1/3 of my large colon removed. I was then diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome, and had my ovaries removed prophylactically. ❤️

[@divsib]

Hi, what kind of pain did you have, if you don’t mind sharing. I’m experiencing similar symptoms so just want to know. Thanks.

[@TheCelestialVoice11]

@@divsib Very pinpointed pain in area of cecal valve. Sometimes a sharp pain, or cramping feeling. Most times an ache, but always in the same place.

[@divsib]

@@TheCelestialVoice11 Thank you.

[@TheHelenhunter]

​@@TheCelestialVoice11 at what age did you get your ovaries out? How are you dealing with menopause, do the hot flashes stop eventually?

[@TheCelestialVoice11]

@@TheHelenhunter At 61 years young. Everyone is different, and I had no worsening menopausal symptoms. I’d already been in menopause for 5 years.

[@ADHD_Samurai]

My PCP checked me for Hems because of the bleeding, but immediately sent me to GI to make sure. Thankful for him.

[@margaretohara7250]

Great you shared your story and I hope and pray you are okay. Bless you.

[@recentisland1513]

Yes. A friend of mine was diagnosed with colon cancer at 27 and she survived . I knew a pathologist who was diagnosed at age 39 . She died with 2 years .

[@truthseeker243]

Great sense of humor😅 "Wasband" and paraphrasing 'Really? Now is not a good time for this'. That would totally be my reaction, lol. Thanks for your story. Hope you stay well.

[@GoatzombieBubba]

Marriage ended cause she is selfish and everything has to revolve around her.

[@joanneg5758]

30 years ago I was 36. I went to the dr with excruciating pain. He said probably acid reflux take antacids come back in 6 months. Still in pain 6 months later maybe I have a gall stone because I fit the profile of fair, fat and 40. I am 6’ feet tall, I weighed 135 lbs and yes I have fair skin, gave me a RX and said come back in 6 months. I go back and he said probably a kidney stone here try this come back in 6 months. I go back again he said it could be an ulcer here take this…. So 2 years later the pain is so bad I couldn’t walk correctly, had to always bend to the side to relieve the pressure on my left side. He recommended a GI. Immediately the GI ran a test and I was in surgery in 3 days. Colon cancer stage 3. Removed my ascending colon and majority of my transverse colon. Chemo for a year. More tests Dr of radiology says everything looks good. My primary dr says I see something I don’t agree with the other Dr. it had spread to my lungs. More surgery another year of chem/immunotherapy. BUT I’m still here! BTW had breast cancer also about 15 years ago. Still here! Problem is that when I finally got the diagnosis for the colon cancer they said I had it for a minimum of 7 years. But as you said they don’t look for it if you’re younger. I am not a hypochondriac and rarely had been to a dr but you start feeling like they think you’re a mental case. It’s a horrible situation.

[@Deathcandy]

They say its Ibs But i pushed for a colonoscopy,getting mine next Week. My symptoms are typical for IBS but i want to be sure. Gas ,cramps,diarrhea. Had ultrasounds,blood tests,cancer markers,etc, all normal. WISH YOU ALL A GREAT HAPPY HEALTHY LIFE❤

[@Starfish2145]

If you start having any feelings that something is wrong go to your doctor and push their ass to get any kind of test you need! Do not allow them to gaslight you! Do not be afraid of things like colonoscopies! We have so many great tests now take advantage of them! It is better to know what you have early then not to know, and find out when it’s too late! Being tired and feeling full is the symptom of quite a few cancers

[@yvonnegibson5445]

I agree . . . Protein powders, protein bars, pre/post workout powders and other supplements may be leading to colon cancer.

[@jmr9735]

Could be. Like everything else, though, there are clean versions that can be bought. They're just not as flashy or tasty as the sugar bombs options that are sold.

[@karentheoktisto9288]

Genetics plays a large part in cancer, know your family history

[@Teewriter]

mRNA contaminated with SV40.

[@lyndahudson5287]

I also agree(to much crap in the powder )

[@jessamalala6203]

@@karentheoktisto9288I believe so, but I was told by few different specialists that that’s not the case. My grandmother died with tumours around her neck and chest, I never met her but my mother described to us what she saw, they lived in different places then far away from each other she would visit and check her app and medical records, take her to appointments, to be told all was good. Then it happened. With my mother it was a small bleeding that cause our concern. Same thing. She passed away. 8 years later I was diagnosed with it, and asked if it was genetic they all said no. But as i said I think it is, they asked me not to alarm my children. Still i have alert all my relatives so they can get check. Take care.

[@brendamorales2241]

Thanks for sharing your story !❤❤

[@daisyrose2425]

Thank u for sharing your story.💖

[@ThePatientStory]

Thanks for watching!

[@Candlesinthewoods]

This is very interesting. I had breast cancer and decided to have both removed. This was around 13 years ago. Never went back to the doctor. I decided to really dive deep into what caused it and how can I improve. I loved my red wine. I loved red meat. Very very acid food. I gave up alcohol meat dairy and eggs. So look into alkaline food. I went that direction. I noticed over this past year I was not doing well with coffee. I paid close attention to how I felt after coffee. Yes I drank around three cups a day. Coffee is extremely acidic. I’ve been drinking coffee for YEARS! That took a few tries to give up. I felt immediately better. I know the body cannot get a disease if it sit at 7 on a scale of 0 - 14 of the acidic - alkaline rating. Fruit and veggies seem to be the best bet. 🌱

[@TheHelenhunter]

Did you get a reconstruction? How do you feel about it now? I'm considering preventative mastectomy due to brca mutation. Could you elaborate a bit, what type of implants, any issues with movements, mobility etc (if any of this applies 😅

[@Candlesinthewoods]

Yes I did have reconstruction. I did not have enough body fat so went for implants. I’m right handed so the right side get a little tight. You can massage that easily. They are a gel implant so that if one breaks say in an accident it won’t leak into the body. If I were to do it again I would do the exact same thing. You will never have to wear a bra again. I did not choose the tear drop one I chose more of the round one. I’m sure there’s a better description for it. If I find the proper name I’ll let you know. :).

[@TheHelenhunter]

Sounds good, thank you for sharing, appreciate it 😊

[@Candlesinthewoods]

@@TheHelenhunter ❤️

[@joanbegun1009]

Thank you for sharing your story .

[@LorenasChesed1beads]

Your story sounds familiar. For years I haven't felt the same. Food seems to take forever to digest. I don't feel hungry anymore. But I avoid the test fearing negative results. 😢

[@zaidamaganda]

I understand the feeling. I'm scared, but I'm going in for a colonoscopy tomorrow. Please go get yours.

[@HopeofGlory-qx4lk]

So you have symptoms as such but avoid getting testing because of fear?! 🤦🏽‍♀️ just wow!

[@pitsinokaki]

It's understandable, but please, take a deep breath and do the test. I am in a similar situation and made a doctor appointment for this week.

[@rwhunt99]

I hate it when she talks about me like that, lol! I am concerned myself with possible colon cancer. so this hits home. I am 73, overweight, and starting to feel in my gut there is something wrong.

[@mandybradley3079]

You are gorgeous and so positive.

[@charitymorales1531]

My story is very similar. Stage 3c at age 33 in 2010.

[@Davidforprofit]

I have a personal and family history of GI issues ranging from IBS colitis diverticulitis Crohn's disease you name it and im having symptoms and have been semi brushed off as being something minor. Ive binge watched all these videos and the main take away is advocate for yourself and pretty much demand a deeper look like a colonoscopy. Im 32 and im concerned so im going to make another doctor appointment and pretty much beg him for a GI referral so i can get a colonoscopy. Theres a huge rise in early cases.

[@azpersonal]

People please start praying over your food before eating. Simple prayer: Father God thank you for this food, I pray it brings only health, healing and life to my body in Jesus Name Amen!

[@gpants3633]

Amen 🙏🏽

[@Lapinettepetitbébé]

🙄

[@AbstractMindsThinkAlike]

Amen! I need to start doing this.

[@melaniedunn2791]

Absolutely!

[@melaniedunn2791]

I pray over my drink too, which is always water, because these days there is no telling what you’re ingesting!

[@rlord7053]

God Bless the Doctor's that doubt it's cancer but still cover all their basis to make sure.

[@Naebl-cd5kp]

In France everybody can have a colon cancer test done but yet again it's call prevention, something practically inexistant in the US due to the extremely hight cost of medecine!!!!! This test is done at home and sent to the lab through your doctor!!!!

[@commonsense6967]

We do that in the US, too. It's the most inexpensive test there is for colon cancer.

[@Naebl-cd5kp]

@@commonsense6967 yes but in Europe it is done every year symptons or not.

[@KYhomes4u]

That home screening test is not always accurate. Here in the U.S. they do a colonoscopy.

[@susa591]

Those home test are not always accurate

[@Rachel_Ryder]

Yep. I make multiple six figures but the government takes half. That leaves me with enough to save for retirement, my son’s college, and live a modest lifestyle. I also pay six figures in taxes so OTHERS can have free healthcare. But when it comes to my own healthcare?? I can barely afford a colonoscopy, and CERTAINLY can’t afford cancer. I have every symptom of CRC, and I’m positive I have it bc of family history. But I just get to sit around and wait to die because I can’t afford to treat cancer, while people who work minimum wage jobs get their cancer treatment for free through Medicaid. I am a six figure earner! I’d be bankrupt plus some. So I wait to die, I guess. I’d be better off selling the business I worked my whole life for, and applying for Medicaid. But then what good would living be. It’s quite the dilemma, very bleak. Brings me to tears every time I think about it, which I don’t allow myself often. All I wanted was to provide for my son. He gets to lose his mom because she’s not poor. The poor are the lucky ones in this country. The rest of us can’t afford proper treatment.

[@geocape7060]

I hope you stay healthy and beautiful for years and years. Bless you.

[@debbieengdall2333]

How are things going for you now? You are a wonderful person to share your story and to make more people aware. God bless you.

[@keithbucholtz9586]

I am going through exactly what you were going through. My symptoms have been bad for 4 years and finally the VA is doing more tests. I only eat maybe once a day

[@VeganLife-mn1jp]

Please try to get a colonoscopy.

[@tessthef1rst]

I truly don’t understand the symptoms compared to a million other things I could attribute those symptoms to. Exhaustion for me is my Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, and peri-menopause and now menopause. Between being a single mom and always having much more to do that a family that has a spouse to help with the adulting I’m always tired. And it’s exhausting. I am active and fit and don’t drink but no doctor would ever think I would need to be checked due to the pre-existing obvious health issues.

[@expressivejewels8976]

I was diagnosed with colon cancer at 36. My mother also had several different cancers throughout her life. A doctor suggested I get tested for Lynch Syndrome. This is something you should be tested for. I was positive for Lynch syndrome. Knowing this has probably saved me from other cancers as I go through preventive cancer screenings. Im now happily 57. Because of your age of getting colon cancer and your father having it as well, you really want to be tested.

[@luvelyjay]

“It’s just a little cancery” Wow! How we gaslight ourselves to deal with traumatic events 😮

[@nikkiskitchen07]

Poor ex-husband

[@terryl.cooper]

I'm 60. Since March I've lost 40 lbs. It's either diarrhea or vomiting. If I do sometimes get hungry I'm three bites in and I get queasy. I was *supposed* to have had an endoscopy this week. 24 hours before I get a call from the center. They couldn't do it because I had no one for them to pass me off to afterward. Being single is a liability for them apparently. Uber or Lyft wasn't good enough. They needed an actual person to make sure that I got in the house okay. I get it but I can't see getting married so I can have a ride twice a year. I offered to pick up a homeless person at a 7-11 but that isn't allowed either. Yes, I'm making fun of the situation because it's effen ridiculous. I can't be the only single person in America who needs an endo and a colonoscopy ffs They're going to try to get the insurance company to approve both procedures on the same day so that I can be admitted for 23-hour observation" thus not needing someone to take me home after. It's now Friday night. I'm still waiting for a call to say whether it got approved or not.

[@carolinagurl22]

I’m so sorry. I don’t know what to say. Many of us may one day be alone and God forbid we are denied procedures because we don’t have someone living with us. 🙏🏻😢

[@laray1228]

You can check your area for medical transportation. In my area it is called Med-Ride

[@curiousgirl.4134]

No friends to give you a ride? I am single but have tons of friends and family who will jump in to help. Co-workers? Perfect example to keep friends in your life even if its one or two. 😞

[@Fangfeaster12]

Where do u live? I could help out

[@ccalexander1924]

I’m having both procedures the same day but was told I have to have someone take me home and stay with me 24 hours . I was told I would be cancelled if someone isn’t waiting for me while I have the procedure. I do think that neddd to change. I think at the very least they should allow you to just recover at the facility up to 8 hours so that gives time for maybe someone to come after work to pick you up and stay with you for the night. It’s kind of hard to ask someone to just take the entire day off just to babysit you during procedure and after

[@DR3itmatters]

Did Barb post to patient story awhile ago?? I remember her, not sure from where.

[@bdmbpm1467]

I remember a prior video also.

[@Loserkid420]

Im sorry you were dismissed ive been dismissed as well but due to another condition . oh my gosh … the kind of condition i have can be fatal if not treated properly , like cancer if not caught on time and treated correctly . it’s infuriating theres doctors who are dismissive espicially when we the patients who are comming into the doctors sick asking for answers

[@ChuckNorris-ju5fn]

You are so BEAUTIFUL!....great story, glad it had a happy ending

[@louisequadrelli7961]

What were your symptoms? You mention fatigue and stomach pain but what changes in bowel movements did you have

[@Rowan-mo4ko]

Any inconsistencies in bowels. Your bowels should be solid and brown. Any blood at all see someone immediately.

[@nuwon8154]

I am a 42 year young mom also. I'm in a situation right now where I'm just going through soooo much that i am too scared to have cancer. It's something I feel like could be a situation. I just know something isn't right. I'm literally so tired all the time

[@Rachel_Ryder]

Same!! How did things go for you? I am self-employed, or rather employed by my LLC and don’t have health insurance bc of how ridiculous the premiums are and how little they cover. Well, now I have every single symptom of CRC and I’m frozen in fear of leaving my 15yr old son, and the fear of financial ruin after I worked my whole life to be gainfully self-employed. Funny that I’ve paid 6 figures in taxes the last 3 years but can’t afford *my own* health insurance. If I do have cancer, it’s over, my life would be over. Come this far just to have a rogue cell snatch it all away? No thanks. Hopefully it’s stage 4 and I can go quickly, if it is cancer. I’ve got an appointment with a GP to see how much a colonoscopy is, and a FIT test just arrived in the mail. If it’s positive, I’ll just sit and wait to die since I can’t afford treatment, I guess.

[@cindyjones3216]

"a little cancery"... what a nice way of dealing with it, sorry for what she went through.

[@bad_vaporizer]

My aunt had cancer and her PCP ignored her symptoms and pain for months. He kept telling her it was something else. By the time she was sick of it and went to get a 2nd opinion it was too late.

[@banderson6102]

Does cancer ever show up in blood tests, like when you have blood drawn for your annual physical appt? just wondering.

[@JDS-wk4gz]

Not really unless the tumors are bleeding alot and you have low red blood counts from it. Blood cancers may have a few markers in blood work. That is why they call it the silent killer. By the time the tumors get big enough for them to give you symptoms it may have already spread to many distant sites.

[@Ashy5000]

Hematological cancers are usually diagnosed through blood tests. Leukemias, Lymphomas etc because blood is what that cancer is directly affecting so you will see abnormalities. But as for oncological cancers such as colorectal. A general blood test won't show anything strange unless you're anaemic because your tumour is bleeding. So your HB level could be low (red blood cell count). There are specific blood tests that test for tumour markers in the blood. The one used for Colorectal is Carcinoembryonic Antigen or CEA level. If this is elevated in your blood test it can SUGGEST you may have colorectal cancer but it cannot be used as a diagnostic tool. A colonoscopy is the only way or a sure diagnosis of colorectal CA. The CEA blood test is typically used as a marker for prognosis and progression amongst people who have already been diagnosed.

[@michaellinkroum4803]

​@@JDS-wk4gzMy doctor was dragging his ass while I was begging him to get a colonoscopy!He finally gave me a stool kit that allegedly came back negative but I don't really trust them.The colonoscopy is on Friday!

[@Fangfeaster12]

Hi look for Galleri test

[@catistokes]

Is there a way I can contact Barbara? I can relate to her symptoms, lifestyle, and stressors.

[@kayak9078]

Oh, girl. I have to admit you made me laugh when you said you didn’t have time for cancer and would “take a pass.” My husband is going in for an urgent colonoscopy and endoscopy in a few days with very concerning symptoms. I’m going to remember your phrase when the doctor gives him the diagnosis. If nothing else, just to help me get through it.

[@JM-ou4in]

My husband was just diagnosed with stage 3a rectal cancer. We're just starting the chemo and dealing with it's aftermath. My positivity is tanking and i see yhe same in my husband. It's overwhelming. I have a colonoscopy scheduled in about a month it was a two month waiting list. I'm worried because I've had many symptoms for a long time but constantly brushed off by doctors only for me oh it's stress or oh it's because you're fat, insert fluppant coment "Just lose weight". As though i haven't been trying to for 25years! It's so infuriating to pay these "health care professionals" that don't do a damn thing except take your money and throw a pill at ot with no investigation of what the source of the problem is. I wish all of you health and optimism!

[@annahayes9009]

Had my colonoscopy in middy of divorce also.Wonder dose the stress cause alot of the problems

[@itisjustsheila]

I did wake up with the bag and I was so horrified I knew there was a possibility but thought not to worry I will be one wo does not need it Well I got it and I was angry But after 3 months everything was back together and now I look back it was not all that bad It was mostly vanity and I am at the time 68 yrs old lol lol...but it likely saved my life as I had to have the small intestines' needed that rest I had been stage 4 cancer...so good luck with your health hun....and enjoy your life you have a long one ahead

[@Dymphna06]

I like this woman. I think the same way and had a positive FIT test and I’ve been avoiding getting a colonoscopy due to fear of it (I have super fears of stomach bug and invasive testing) and also fear of falling behind taking care of my kids and feeling a huge sense of avoidance and inconvenience. The past ten years I had lots of autoimmune symptoms and hemiplegic migraines and have been over diagnosed / misdiagnosed and I feel like everything in medicine has been over the top for me and I just cannot deal with another biopsy or test and the cost!!! But this is probably the most important test to do. I think the FIT test caught blood from my urine as I always test positive for microscopic blood in the urine. I’m just hoping it’s not colon cancer.

[@johnglenn1457]

I was diagnosed for stage 3 Colon cancer at 56 , 6 months of chemotherapy was very rough and I agree with her chemo is rough on the brain or it was for me,

[@jess4metoo]

When my father passed from colon cancer at 81, my Dr immediately recommended a colonoscopy I was 46.

[@shimmer8289]

Hi your story attracted my interest. After experiencing a very large rectal abcess that ER attributed to 'anxiety pain' and required 5 more ER visits plus blood running down my legs to get a dx and operation trust me I get doctor bias. Note I already have not hodgins lymphoma the surgeon said I was 'lucky' to have,good grief. However since then I have a fistula the nurses instructed me to eat more and alot of Fibre which I did for 5 months. 5 months of incontinence and diahreaa up to 8 x a day. So last month I stopped eating Fibre and reduced food a great deal and it is controlled to 3 or 4 bm a week. Now the surgeon discovered the fustula grew and I require a fistulotomy in March. This gives 40 percent incontinence outcome and a high fail rate. I've asked but never had mri, colen test, or fecal count. Yip I get it unless u are bedridden u don't get help and ha I was and not even then !

[@Haplo2006]

It's tough knowing that there's something wrong with your health and noone taking you seriously until the symptoms are so obvious that it might be too late.

[@susanmonty791]

I’ve had 3 colonoscopies starting early bc my mom had colon cancer at 63

[@michaellinkroum4803]

I wonder if the stool test came back negative before the colonoscopy?Mine came back negative but I heard the are only 79% accurate!

[@JennifertxCarnivore]

I have said this before- but I truly feel that colon cancer is NOT silent at all! Our bodies are warning us up to that point in stages when people eat plant based foods, processed or whole (raw or cooked) - doesn’t matter which type you digest- does the same to your colon! These are stages that our colon warns us that we are damaging it before we hit colon cancer: Stage 1: IBS symptoms- (Cramping, gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, extended bellies!) Stage 2 if you ignore stage one: Diverticulitis, diverticulosis, crones, celiac, ulcers, polyps, leaky gut, lactose, and so on. Stage 3: colon cancer! We need to be listening to our bodies! Doctors say it’s normal to have IBS- but NO it is not! It’s not normal at all- it is a warning that if we ignore, our guts will get damaged over time! There is no silence with colon cancer- your body has done so much to warn you but you just didn’t listen! Remove plants from your diet and go the human ancestral way of eating- the carnivore lifestyle! It is not a fad- it’s is the human way of eating!

[@MaryC-ug4pf]

With me it was assumed I just had a hemorrhoid, after all, I've had children, and all women who give birth get hemorrhoids. I wasn't even examined; one female doctor said "I won't examine you today." And that was it. By the time I found a doctor who was concerned, I was already stage 3b suspicious for metastasis.

[@carolineheffernan7368]

God Bless you!!

[@Anjanya1948]

The Drs here have literally gas lighted my hubby's diseases not calling us back, not follow visits, no reading off the lab results, not prescribing to us needed meds. Just lazy if you ask me. It's lame. No follow up care if you ask for it you must have had juicy insurance. As for us medicares check is good enough for them but we don't really matter to these Drs it's pathetic no intervention since July now December. ❤ The doctor s are just plain dusmissive of any questions uou can ask and yet they get oaid no matter what. Why diesnt medicate have a rating system? 😅😅

[@djkoz78]

Not sure what she means by eating food was causing her discomfort. Pain? Severe indigestion?