My Doctor Thought It Was Food Allergies - Steve | Colorectal Cancer | The Patient Story

Steve Slack's world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer at the age of 48. Steve shares his emotional and physical battles, from the initial misdiagnosis to the life-changing news and subsequent treatments.
In this cancer story, Steve reflects on his struggles, his determination to fight for his family, and the resilience he's developed. He also discusses his efforts to support other cancer patients and raise awareness about colorectal cancer.
#colorectalcancer #cancerpatient #cancersurvivor #patientstories #thepatientstory
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The Patient Story is led by a dedicated team of medical, editorial, and video experts, committed to authentically portraying the cancer patient experience. Sharing your story holds transformative power, culturally and personally. We handle each narrative with utmost care, compassion, and scientific rigor.
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Beyond patient narratives, we provide comprehensive coverage of cancer news and medical resources. From symptoms to clinical trials, insurance, finances, and support groups, we offer guidance in a humanized manner.
Chapters:
0:00 - Meet Steve Slack
0:33 - Initial Signs and Misdiagnosis
1:56 - My Colon Cancer Symptoms
2:45 - Coping with My Diagnosis
4:38 - Surgery and Chemotherapy Journey
6:23 - Chemotherapy Side Effects
7:38 - Mental and Emotional Challenges
12:09 - Advocacy and Supporting Other Patients
14:09 - Finding Purpose and Helping Others
16:33 - My Liver Transplant
20:22 The Importance of Self-Advocacy and Awareness
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My Doctor Thought It Was Food Allergies - Steve | Colorectal Cancer | The Patient Story
• My Doctor Thought It W...

[@seniorcitizenpam1872]

I don’t blame you for being angry. I had a different cancer, but a similar doctor story. I was spotting between periods for ten years. My gynecologist said it was probably hormonal changes. One day I gushed blood. I called my doctor and said I needed to be seen immediately. He tried to dismiss it. He did a biopsy and the bottom line was cervical cancer and I needed a radical hysterectomy. I was only 33, and couldn’t have children. Maybe it was meant to be. The surgeon called it a trade off. Like you, I was a member of a support group at Pennsylvania Hospital called Person to Person. They matched us with patients according to diagnosis. I am 73, and was able to beat the odds. That surgery was in 1986. You have a flipping fantastic attitude.

[@user-cy8bu3cq1n]

I’m so sorry. It’s not your fault, your doctor failed you. Doctors saying “you’re too young for cancer” must be living under a rock. If you can’t be angry, I’ll be angry for you. 😢😡

[@caffrey1100]

Is straight up stupid -- and they don’t deserve there license period they say that children’s hospitals are loaded with/cancer patients

[@unprocessed_life]

Thats when I would reply, "well you're too ignorant to be a doctor" and go find someone else

[@mikeb3268]

Yeah, but he’s Canadian….

[@Xadanar]

Diagnosed with colorectal cancer at 28 mid May this year. Starting chemo in 2 weeks. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@Xadanar]

It is so easy to explain away the symptoms. Even the doctors try and all because "you are too young" if i had a dollar every time I have heard that up to this point I would have many dollars

[@CopingwithGrattitude]

Good luck on your journey and I hope you can share your story someday. Unfathomable at just 28yrs old.😞

[@finster1968]

There is no way I’d ever go back to that family doctor! As a stage 3 colorectal cancer survivor myself, my primary also dismissed my symptoms. But I knew something was very wrong, so I kept going to specialists even though I was told I was fine. When I started bleeding, I didn’t wait for anyone to recommend it. I immediately found a gastroenterologist and booked a colonoscopy at age 45. He diagnosed me and found the tumor which was beginning to light up lymph nodes nearby the colon wall. Today I have a new primary doctor! But I can’t say enough good things about the wonderful staff who diagnosed me, as well as the John Theurer Cancer Center team who treated me like I really mattered and provided the best of care. I wish you all the best and will keep you in my prayers. 🙏

[@alexmcbride7659]

God bless you. I am a survivor myself. It’s a proud honor to have. Wishing you health and no matter what happiness and peace!

[@j3d354]

Your friend from High School, the donor, is a very special person. I am happy you are beating this. Stay strong

[@JillyBean1968]

I am so sorry you received that news. I am telling you, hospitals and doctors are very sloppy now more than ever….we have to advocate for ourselves now! Praying for you. ❤

[@maxine3587]

What an inspirational story. Its a shame so very many begin with being brushed aside by GPs. Best wishes.

[@suevick637]

I am glad to see that you survived cancer. So many do not. My husband did not, but I find strength and the grace of God, in stories like yours. Keep fighting the good fight ❣️

[@debbiemurphy5553]

You are so honest, down to earth, and an inspiration. I wish you years of health and happiness.

[@Chompersize]

Hi Steve! Dave here from B.C. You are one Brave Dude you've gone through a lot of crap. Most of us are afraid of the unknown especially with Cancer, I've battled twice. I'm here for support.

[@phlqueen8881]

Thank you for helping others through your own cancer journey. May God continue to bless you 🙏

[@pompom11]

My wife was getting headaches and she had an MRI and a CT scan of her brain. All that was found was a tiny spot smaller than a green pea. Over time both she and my four adult children didn’t think about that pea but I brought it up 12 months later and asked her if she has headache she said no, and then I said what about that spot and she said Oh, the doctor never called me back for a follow up. New CT scan showed Glioblastoma Grade 4 the size of a large lemon. So the surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital said the “tentacles” have already grown into her brain and if they do surgery, it still a terminal prognosis. She is a tough Yankee from New England and had three surgeries loads of chemo and radiation. Two weeks before she went downhill she was still driving herself to the hospital for the radiation treatments. Three days before she died at hospice she was still talking with everybody, then went downhill very quickly. So last week, she’s been gone one year. I spoke to the surgeon who was brilliant and she told me if the spot was removed way back when she would’ve survived. Myself as well as my 4 children and six grandchildren are still grieving. It is heartwarming to hear your successful journey. You have a beautiful family, son’s so handsome. Peace and stay well.

[@clairebeever3038]

I’m so very sorry to hear about your wife how awful 😢sending ❤ your poor wife

[@kristiemowry3267]

Steve is such a good speaker. So happy to have listened to his story. At 73 I hear of more and more folks who develop cancer. It affects us all.

[@Blessedbeyond.]

What a beautiful family God blessed you with!!!

[@nuplanner5345]

You’re remarkable, and a terrific example for your kids and everyone who knows you. Thank you. Have a long, healthy, happy life. 🌻

[@junedolson1642]

I'm glad you're not angry, but your doctor should have sent you for a colonoscopy. I believe he was very dismissive. My niece was diagnosed at 47 doctors needs to send their patients for a scope. Amazing story about your friend. Glad you are doing well. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@ilovepickles495]

wow, what an incredible story. thank you for sharing. and i cannot believe the odds that your friend had cancer too... i got shivers! best wishes for continued clean scans and good health!

[@PyrPupMom]

Yes! I've often thought there should be a t-shirt that says, "Rectal bleeding, don't assume it's just hemorrhoids." You are one of the reasons that the American Cancer Society recommends starting routine colonoscopies at 45 instead of 50, and now insurance companies pay for colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45. Options start with a stool test for people who don't want to go straight to colonoscopy, but if it's positive (for blood) they should have a colonoscopy. My own father had a gastrointestinal cancer missed, and passed away my first year of medical school. Anyone with symptoms can be worked up at any age. I agree that finding a provider to order the test can be a challenge. If needed, just show up at the ER and tell them you have abdominal pain, and you are almost guaranteed a CT scan.

[@Katie-vy5rd]

Thank you!

[@julief2247]

So happy you are NED. My cousin was diagnosed at 32 and passed away 3 days before he turned 40. Stay positive and strong and Prayers you live a long and healthy life. May God Bless your donor and glad to hear your best friends cancer was caught early.

[@battybethc8061]

So sorry for your loss! So young! My bro passed in 1974 of cancer and he was only 22! 😢😮

[@michellebarnett3658]

I was a surgical nurse who specialized in colorectal robotic surgeries and general surgeries. It’s a tough surgery and I’m impressed at your voice for others and encouragement. It takes a strong person to fight as you have! Best of luck for your next scan. I hope you continue to scan cancer free and get the chance to watch you boys grow into adulthood!

[@donna2484]

So happy to know you are cancer free.

[@OlgoliaMongolia]

Thank you Steve for sharing. Edit: “I love to prove them wrong” Wow Steve, what a beautiful experience!! You know what? You have encouraged and inspired cancer patients. I am healthy and you just gave a mission to my life: I want to get scanned and be able to help someone in need. If I am a match to help someone survive, I would feel like: “Mission Acomplished” You Rock! CONGRATULATIONS🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@jodiewilcox6772]

Thank you for sharing your story. You are proof of how sharing your experience can save lives! I'm so happy for you and your loved ones.

[@jeanroth159]

Thank you for sharing your story Steve,you will be helping many just by doing this. I wish you all the best of health and many many years to come ...your so right,your story is not over ♡. Your family is beautiful♡,enjoy every moment .

[@barbarameehan113]

You are such an inspiration, Steve. Thank you for sharing your journey. You are helping me, for sure. God bless you and your family.

[@bluevelvet3769]

U are a great advocate and a brave man steve.doctors do dismiss.we must always listen to what our body is telling us.take care steve.

[@norcalraider5047]

Very well said about standing up for your family ❤

[@laurawilliams5363]

Incredible man. Great attitude. I have diffuse systemic scleroderma and multiple myeloma. Like you I am all about being open about discussing these diseases and support to others that may be going through their health challenge. I appreciate your openness and honesty about what has and is happening. Thank you.

[@laurafleming7408]

Great insight and very inspiring ..."That's how you handle adversity.". Thank you.

[@ny_njtrailrunnert926]

Perspective will drive your outcome. You have taken control over the single most important thing- Having the right attitude. I've been a cancer nurse for 15 years and I will tell you that I repeatedly see much better quality of life and overall enjoyment of the days people have left, when they have a good attitude about the things that they can control. Not to say these people are upbeat and happy all the time, it just seems they consciously choose words and actions that are positive, proactive and peaceful

[@vickimarlene4905]

You sir are one brave guy. Your poor face. Side effects are worse than the disease. I’m glad it’s cleared up now. So glad your treatment is working.

[@Anturaju93]

I suffer from IBS since 2010. Sadly IBS symptoms are very similar with colon cancer (bloating, pain, diarrhea, constipation, increased bowel movements, weight loss). I have done two colonoscopies, all okay, but I'm afraid I will never know if I have colon cancer because I already have symptoms.

[@Katie-vy5rd]

Rectal bleeding and if you feel mass in abdomen while laying down flat.. or consistsant constipation ( pencil thin stools) .. you probably know all this though...

[@wendytravis6427]

Same

[@martinacaffrey4411]

​@@Katie-vy5rdwhat does this rectal bleeding look like? Is it a pool of blood in the bowl or stuck to the stool? They are always very vague about this.

[@Anturaju93]

@@Katie-vy5rd pencil thin stools I already have that for many years. The only think I don't got is bleeding.

[@matthewthomasjames]

Ulcerative Colitis causes the exact same symptoms of colon cancer; bleeding can be severe, and the pencil this stool is often caused by an inflamed colon.

[@marievepaquin-bergeron8975]

This is the best lesson you can teach to your kids. ❤️

[@mindykloster3540]

You really describe all the details, feelings, hopes, and fears very clearly! I hope you have continued good health and see your boys thrive!❤️

[@roch145]

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. I skipped my 50 year old colonoscopy. Ten years later I was diagnosed with Stage 3C cancer. Colorectal cancers are typically slow growing. If I had my colonoscopy on time I’m sure they would have found polyps growing that would have been removed and I would have avoided a cancer battle. In the US, the colonoscopy screening age is now 45. So don’t put off that test.

[@gl9139]

I’m completely blown away that after 27 rounds of chemo, you’re alive and well. I’m suffering with eczema and similar symptoms you had, and if I have painful skin rash that you had, I’d wonder why I’d keep going. Waiting for doctors’ appts and lab tests takes months.

[@peggysue7898]

How AWESOME!!! Your story gives me Hope!

[@deboraheaton2726]

Amazing story! 🙏

[@grammagail154]

you are one brave and courageous man…God Bless you

[@Ceerads]

Thank you for this video. If I’d listened to the radiologist who said my palpable breast lump was “Nothing. Come back in a year,” I’d be long dead by now. Fortunately, her report went to my gynecologist, who told me to get another opinion. I did; it was breast cancer. Early-stage, most fortunately, and it’s 25 years since dx. I wish you good health. And I envy your being in Canada!

[@doriasalmon4790]

Down to earth and inspirational person Thank you

[@carolineszepessy5331]

So proud of you and your family ❤

[@user-gy9ir1xd8k]

I hope you are doing alright Steve!!

[@annduffy1356]

What a tragic but now hopeful story! My father had colon cancer so I have been screened for the past 25 years. I wonder, because so many young people are being diagnosed, if it should become a regular screening, much like mammograms and other screenings.

[@tinareberger3858]

Amazing story!! God bless you and your very large support team/family!!

[@jonrend]

Your story is amazing Steve.

[@livingbestlife2783]

Ty for sharing your story.

[@clairebeever3038]

Hi just want to say thank you for sharing …. It must have been so hard … with your doctor I’m glad you’re sharing this as so many of us are getting cancer whilst young I have cancer too … it’s not anyone’s fault not yours I hope your doctor learns something from this as your right it cannot be changed now … I really pray you carry on doing ok … I know how hard it is sending ❤to you and your family Claire uk 🇬🇧

[@monicamestas7566]

Hat's off to you for your attitude, coming to grips with your diagnosis and medical journey, and your commitment to give back to others. Thank you for sharing your story. And, yes, you are a source of hope. Continue on..................

[@monicamestas7566]

I have read that the medical community believes colon cancers are on the rise, and particularly in younger people, because of higher meat consumption and lower fruit and vegetable consumption, as well as more fast foods/processed foods.

[@samdavis6445]

For anyone out there that has off and on bleeding, with pain during the bowel movement coming out. Best thing is to just head to a gastroenterologist and get an Anoscopy done real quick, easy quick test to check for hemorrhoids, they can check for active swelling and/or fissures. Don't put off the bleeding, they can always do other testing that's more invasive later if need be, based on symptoms, but it's good to figure out if the bleeding is happening with active hemorrhoids. Hope this helps.

[@mariaperez-ce8qv]

I’m happy you are doing well health wise ❤

[@dollymando]

Amazing story!

[@norcalraider5047]

Colon cancer really is hard to detect off symptoms. It really takes a colonoscopy and everyone should get one.

[@FoodieQueenBee]

So true. My sister just got colonoscopy and it was just routine one cuz no symptoms. They found one small polyp and dr was able to remove it. She eats pretty healthy and still had small polyp at 51. I told her to get one and Im glad she went for colonoscopy

[@kathrynbaker8215]

You really are an inspiration for your boys!

[@janetdriver7435]

You are a rockstar of a Father💪

[@janetobrien8630]

Thank you for sharing your story. It has certainly informed me. I wish you and yours all the luck and love in the world. Jan 🇬🇧.

[@carolannmckee]

You are so well spoken. Thanks for the work you are doing to help raise money and help others! (As a fellow Canadian, I enjoyed seeing your Terry Fox t-shirt and the Toronto Maple Leaf jerseys!) Best Wishes!

[@maricormier121]

THANK YOU!!!!!!

[@KC-ht4iu]

Congratulations 👏 and u are one lucky 🍀 god bless..

[@user-us8tb9qe9l]

It is so frustrating. I am also from Ontario and my Mom was just diagnosed with rectal cancer at 67. She couldn't have surgery because it is too low in the rectum. She did chemo and is now undergoing radiation. She was diagnosed in October 2023. I was also suffering stomach issues much like yours and waited 1 year to get an appointment with a gastroenterologist. When I finally got in the November following my Mom's diagnosis. My family doctor actually pushed for me to get in. He said with my symptoms I should have a scope and once my Mom was diagnosed he said I should have a colonoscopy. I'm 42. The specialist wouldn't do a scope and I had to fight for a colonoscopy. He said I was good to wait til 50. I ended up having one done in January of this year after pushing because I too occasionally get blood in my stool. Luckily all is good. But I am still having uncomfortable bloating in my stomach, upper and lower. All he does is want to give me pills. I have no answers. I may go and seek a natural route and try a naturopath. I'm so sorry for what you are going through and pray everything works out.

[@crystalhutchison8546]

My father in law was diagnosed at 45 and passed at 46. My husband hasn't had a colonoscopy in 20 plus years with every single scary sign and refuses to go because it's scary. Chemo didn't help his dad at all so I wouldn't bother with that aways. Just trust God has you through it all. They do t even expect checks until 50s unless family has it.

[@annberrios9759]

you look great. Happy that you are well. Keep up the great work!!!

[@sheilagoos645]

I'm so happy for you! Wishing you a long and healthy life! All of us are not so lucky. I'm going to continue chemo until I can't do it anymore!

[@cathylaycock5598]

💙💙💙. Thank you for speaking of your personal experience bad and good. There’s only my 1 brother and I left of the 5 of us. Our eldest brother passed of Leukaemia,my only sister passed of a form of lung cancer, my remaining brother I’d dying of leukaemia. I have the same mutant gene for the Leukaemia and 1 other that is from the nervous system that can cause tumours to grow anywhere in me, and “most” are benign. I do have colon disease and have colonoscopy every 2 years, more often if I’m having issues. I do have Divertulosis which gets infected every few years. I’m almost 71. Always have discomfort on left side od colon. Some days a fair amount so I’m always conscious of things possibly changing. Love your attitude! I’m sending you and your beautiful family warm healing hugs from Victoria BC. 😊❤️🇨🇦

[@splash6427]

🙏 ❤ 🙏 For You & All Always & Forever

[@farmguyb3875]

good for you! I went thru stage 2 couple years ago

[@scota73]

Yes you do need to advocate for yourself which I learned personally the hard way as well. Now I use “for my peace of mind can you order…..” maybe he’s so willing due to my health history of chondrosarcoma that was missed previously with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. I recently asked for an mri for a problem with my hand and he easily said yes.

[@ericahalmai8490]

I wish you a good health , a long happy life with your family 🇦🇺🍀🙏

[@bees.857]

My partner thought he was lactose intolerant, he's only 33. Then we thought it was appendicitis. Turns out it was stage 4 colorectal cancer that had burst out of the colon. Don't ignore and try to self treat these symptoms! Being young means nothing anymore, it can get any of us.

[@annettethompson2723]

Amen!! The lord is with you. I admire your loyalty after anger to your FAMILY doctor. They want to know why you’re still there because he is human he is a family friend who cared for you all through your lives. Blessings over both who were willing to gift you a part of them to help you. May you live a very very long life. Hummm maybe you received because you were forgiving ❤

[@doriasalmon4790]

Always be proactive in your health care, the doctors do not know your body; tell them you have bleeding in your stool if you have to just to get them to get you a colonoscopy because that’s where most issues lie, with age and health insurance

[@waynelovato]

I was recently diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer its in my liver too, and it's in my lymph nodes so yeah but u give me hope

[@debbiemccracken138]

You should do a blog to warn people

[@candycewindels1337]

Cancer is an evil beast. My dads dad had colon cancer twice and then prostate cancer. He made it to 92. My dads side of the family is from Canada. We live in washington now. Not sure how it is in Canada as far as colonoscopies. Here they recommended them starting at 45 , earlier if you have a family history. My dad started at 40 i believe. But good on you for fighting so hard and trying not to stay angry.

[@territ1231]

So many missed or excused , even with symptoms , diagnoses!!

[@Dmcsw-xg9cq]

❤

[@sevea]

Blood in stool but its food sensitives. Okay...

[@stephsunh1370]

Respekt❤

[@chrifus31037]

I'm almost 42 and having my first colonoscopy tomorrow, so scared they will find a large polyp that will require surgery but pretty sure that will be the case...

[@KISSMIBUT27]

Also 250mg day fenbendazole until cancer is gone.

[@Robin5957]

You're a seriously forgiving guy to still go back to the doctor that initially brushed you off. I wouldn't trust him with a goldfish. Oh, and I sure wouldn't go back - and let my family go back to him!

[@maureenohara4053]

🙏🙏🙏

[@davidbenaim6357]

PLEASE , read about thérapeutique ketosis and Doctor Seyfried work !

[@TreeBee555]

Please tell my why you stayed with this doctor. I am genuinely curious. Are you concerned that he may miss things in the future with your wife & children. I DO think you are being too hard on yourself in that you are not a medical professional and your doctor absolutely dropped the ball. He should have sent you for more thorough tests.

[@omarlocke4351]

you must have only had excellent experiences with these deviant pieces of human filth. they gang up on you and definitely communicate with each other. doctors should be sued when they misdiagnose patients so badly. especially in corporate hospitals.

[@Katie-vy5rd]

Anytime you have rectal bleeding without hemorrhoids is suspicious. I wonder as well about staying on with that doc... Oh another symptom : pencil thin stools.. fyi

[@Puda]

It’s almost impossible to get a fam doctor in ON so pretty sure that’s why he is staying with him.

[@tawnalynelle1]

He may feel just the opposite. The doctor will almost certainly take greater precautions for all of his patients now, but most of all, THIS family!

[@ChroniclesofGhoul]

@@tawnalynelle1I would be tempted to sue that Dr

[@carmencorleto1479]

That's a bad GP, blood in the stool that's crazy.

[@sacredspotvancouvercenterf104]

Sorry if you are shitting blood, the first time, you demand a colonoscopy. No doctor would say no. This is not your doctor’s fault. This went on for two years! Any doctor would put in a requisition for shitting blood on that day you ask. But you are a survivor, a fighter, inspiring, and deepest respect to! Thank you for sharing your story.

[@debbiemccracken138]

If you heave blood in your stool then you know it’s something more. I’m shocked at your doctor not sending you for a colonoscopy!

[@Ceerads]

Not always cancer, of course. I had quite heavy bleeding many times. Four colonoscopies over twenty years: no cancer, just internal and external benign polyps. I’m a breast cancer survivor so in a high risk for other cancers. But always go to a gastroenterologist if there’s rental bleeding.

[@donna2484]

i cannot believe you saw blood in your stool and did not insist on having a colonoscopy?

[@caffrey1100]

I can they don’t deserve to be doctors

[@PokeMommaAndMini]

My husband was told it was hemorrhoids and it was colon cancer stage 3

[@ChroniclesofGhoul]

What were his symptoms?

[@ingeborgswieten3710]

docs suck and their assistant are lazy and act as oracles

[@seanr2157]

Your doctor should be sued and medical license pulled. What a complete failure on his part. Disgusting. 😡

[@sambrown1809]

Did you get the jab???

[@ElanaMccullum]

Follow timelines..diagnosed in 2021...HE was having symtoms 2 years earlier..so that's back in 2019...vaccines weren't out until End of DEC 2020..for healthcareworkers..early 2021 for the general population...

[@capricorn1970i]

Why hardly anybody asks for Lifestyle, eating habbits etc? Why hardly anybody asks what the food industry uses to produce food? Why not questioning that animals or wheat are genetically modified? No, they just ask if one had that jab? 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

[@87JuliR]

Because it is easier to blame a jab to keep on feeding these conspiracy theories that give them motivation every day?​@@capricorn1970i

[@Ceerads]

There’s always at least one with that question. 🤦‍♀️

[@fwdflashwebdesign]

You look fine to me maybe they are wrong?

[@bettysmith4527]

Are you serious?! They SAW the tumor during a colonoscopy! He is currently cured as well, did you watch the video?!

[@fwdflashwebdesign]

@@bettysmith4527 But you don't look sick, maybe they are wrong...

[@Ceerads]

@@bettysmith4527Not “cured;” NED (“No Evidence of Disease”). I don’t think stage IV colon cancer is curable (most stage IV cancers aren’t).

[@Ceerads]

People can look healthy yet be dying.

[@fwdflashwebdesign]

Maybe you need to see a psychiatrist is all in your head, you look fine man!