Raquel's Stage 4 Colon Cancer Symptoms | Colorectal Cancer | The Patient Story

Raquel first noticed symptoms like pencil thin stools, pain, bloating, and blood in her stool. She then started getting full quickly after eating. But when she finally went to the doctor, she was dismissed and told "it was just anxiety." She then ended up in the emergency room and was later diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer, and it had spread to her liver, ovaries, and lungs.
In this cancer vlog, she aims to raise awareness about rising colorectal cancer rates in young people and the importance of listening to your body!
#cancerstories #cancerpatient #cancersurvivor #patientstories #thepatientstory #coloncancer #crcsm #cancerawareness #symptomsofcancer #cancerscreening #colorectalcancer #cancerprevention #cancersymptoms #cancertreatment #coloncancersurvivor #colonoscopy #colorectalsurgery #stage4cancer #stage4coloncancer
Full story & transcript → thepatientstory.com/patient-s...
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Video Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:34 My first symptoms
02:14 Symptoms I personally experienced
04:37 My primary care doctor dismissed my symptoms
07:45 Learning I had cancer at the emergency room
11:59 Processing my cancer diagnosis
12:20 My treatment plan
13:50 Being on chemotherapy for life
15:48 Looking for other opinions
16:50 Words of advice
To learn more about IBS symptoms vs. colon cancer → tinyurl.com/2tktb3jp
The interview has only been edited for clarity.
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My Symptoms Were Blamed as Anxiety - Raquel | Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer | The Patient Story
• Raquel's Stage 4 Colon...

[@sonyaskogstad3849]

This is the most common thing I see on all these cancer posts is the amount of doctors that don’t take symptoms seriously and I dread to think of the mount of people who have become terminal from these faulty diagnosis.

[@lindymcdonald8945]

Doctors are also gaslighting vaccine injured patientsTelling them the reason they have suddenly become ill after taking the covid vaccine is nothing to do with the vaccine .

[@hansheiser3868]

Agree 100%! The year was 1999; September or October. My uncle was about 89 or so when he began complaining about a dull abdominal pain, chronic constipation and a reduced appetite. His primary care physician said, "Oh, I think you just have gastritis. Take Rolaids every day and use an OTC laxative like Miralax for the constipation. Come back in 6 weeks if things don't get better." After 6 weeks were up, things were worse. He had more or less lost most of his appetite, and anything he tried to eat just came right back up. So my uncle was referred to a GI specialist who looked down into my uncle's stomach. This was mid-January 2000. Turns out he had stage 4 gastric adenocarcinoma. The GI doctor said the tumor was the size of a tangerine, and wasn't able to push the scope past it. They started chemo to try to shrink the tumor but to no avail, and my uncle passed about 3 weeks later. My thinking is that the primary care doctors try to save their health networks' money rather than their patients' lives.

[@darksoulsss2618]

There egos is just disgusting. Am experiencing some concerning things but am afraid to go get looked and and just to be treated like shit. If it continues tho I will go. am hoping am just thinking overly negative and having negative placebo.

[@jondomanstandup]

Im a medical malpractice lawyer in NY. Let me know if you need representation

[@kellymarie3254]

Agreed. I don’t think the medical field has caught up with changes in the behaviour of cancer and how it’s now commonly affecting younger generations.

[@BOOShawny]

Something that REALLY bugs me is when anyone acts like you don’t know your own body. You’ve lived in your body your whole life, you KNOW when something isn’t right.

[@devinevee8684]

I say this all the time

[@Luna-mx7fi]

I completely agree. 💯

[@whiteyfisk9769]

American Drs currently have severe God complex and megalomania disorder.

[@Bernadetec555]

I’m going through this right now with several Dr’s. 😢. I’m on my way for a second opinion after this last test!!!!!

[@goop847]

Recently saw an online forum of ER workers talking about how a patient saying “I know my body” is a red flag…. Evil

[@animaloverdani10]

As a nurse, it's a fine line between respecting specialists and physicians and also advocating for yourself. I totally agree with Raquel- if your intuition is off, be LOUD. Be annoying and be direct. Say, "You don't think a colonoscopy (insert whichever test) is warranted given my symptoms?" And if they say, "No, you're too young." Then say, "Okay, I'll just be getting a second opinion just to be sure, because my symptoms do worry me." Boom. I bet you get the tests ordered right away.

[@palee8928]

As a nurse, a patient who is having these symptoms shouldn’t have to go to that extent to get these tests ordered. Maybe the doctor needs to get off of their high horse and do their job. It’s their ego that killing people.

[@robertafierro5592]

Good Luck getting a Second Opinion at a DIFFERENT HOSPITAL!

[@dalmajikkot90]

in my country if you ever mention getting a second opinion or even if you just transfer from one doc to another, you can be sure they'll let those docs know you're a "problematic" patient and you're basically discredited. Happened to me with my GP and I haven't had one for years, I'm sincerely hoping it's been long enough to just say my papers got lost somewhere and get a blank slate 😅

[@wop2784]

you're very wrong and apart of this corrupt, chemical-based medical industry

[@WouldbeRenaissanceLady6926]

A lawyer once told me "if you don't splash, you won't get heard."

[@NLR759]

A very similar thing happened to Jenny Apple. She has a KZbin channel. She complained of rib pain. Her doctor prescribed yoga and stretching. For a year she kept doing the stretching but the pain wouldn’t go away. She was in her early 30’s and had just had a baby. Her doctor dismissed her symptoms. She went elsewhere and it turned out to be stage 4 lung cancer. She has since passed away. She fought so hard to stay alive for her very young children. It’s such a heartbreaking story.

[@jenngranados825]

I was very sad when she passed😢 life feels so unfair

[@empresswilandefrederici86]

​@jenngranados825 what sad is even people that practice healthier lifestyle and never smoke still get the C word sometimes

[@annaheya2109]

​@@empresswilandefrederici86true, but don't forget stressful life style plays a huge part on immune system

[@empresswilandefrederici86]

@annaheya2109 Exactly. My mom have high blood pressure that ate out so much of her hair. She never ate salty food. Stress gave it to her. Stress can affect our eyes and heart as well.

[@annaheya2109]

@@empresswilandefrederici86 all the best for your mum, my dad too!

[@animeforever247]

Her story made me book a consult with a GI doctor. My symptoms have been brushed off as IBS for 2 years now because of my age but now i will push for a proper diagnosis. I pray for your recovery and healing.

[@holdmyown32]

I hope all is well 🙏🏻

[@mrr3872]

Well wishes dude. Did you get the jab by any chance?

[@boostedrex9460]

​@mrr3872 I did and I feel perfectly fine I'm 29 I work out everyday and push my self to the limit or to failure when I work out. Don't start looking for negatives in your life and start manifesting bad negative thoughts

[@boostedrex9460]

​@@mrr3872you'll be aight pimp vaccines have helped improve the longevity of people's life. It is scary I wish I would of never gotten it. But I do feel perfectly fine

[@mrr3872]

@@boostedrex9460 I'd be careful if I were you. Heart attacks and stage 4's seem common among your lot. I've noted your advice too

[@melbrown6019]

When I was 31, I just had my second baby but I wasn’t eating, forgetful, disorganized, and had headaches. I started passing out from seizures. My doctor kept telling me and my family that I had postpartum depression. I finally went to the ER and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Doctors need to start listening to their patients! It’s really frustrating that symptoms are not taken seriously. I think the problem is because I was young and had just had a baby but those symptoms aren’t postpartum depression. I’m very thankful that you finally got a diagnosis but geez it shouldn’t have taken so long! That’s really heartbreaking.

[@smokeyangelav]

They found my brain tumor the same way.

[@EllieMae-qo3sp]

It’s anxiety says doctor that’ll be 3K

[@LaidleyWyrm]

I don't have kids and even had a grand mal seizure and they also blamed my mental health. I understand that mental health is important and maybe can lead to these things but they could have at least tried to help me out more. I'm glad I went to different doctors, I also had a tumor and got it removed on september 2024.

[@annaheya2109]

That's why i self medicate and refuse to go to hospitals its humiliating

[@LubnaJM]

You're right. My aunt has been diagnosed recently with colon cancer. For 3 months she has been visiting the doctor and insisting that she frequently has to go to the washroom, plus she has also seen blood in her stools but the doctor did not pay any attention and my aunt once had to scream to attend to her condition. The doctor would only give her 3 months late appointment. And now that she has tested positive, the doctor was embarrassed. But the doctors need to understand that the time they wasted by not listening to the patient cannot return.

[@iah8331]

“Anxiety” is the new “hysteria”

[@brip799]

Most definitely. 😢

[@roisinmc7442]

100% . I have abnormal blood tests and asked my doctor for a referral as my body hasn't felt right in a long time and she has written in my referral letter that i am "emotional and teary" which is because i cried out of frustration at being fobbed off repeatedly for a year re the abnormal blood results and i also told her my mum recently died of breast cancer (so of course I am emotional) so now she's given them a preconception about me (Without pointing out i had a bereavement either) and I'm furious

[@iah8331]

@@roisinmc7442 That makes me angry. I once looked at my Drs notes and saw a diagnosis of my emotional state that made my heart sink. It was completely wrong. I fought it and had it removed from my record. But if we’re upset because we don’t feel physically well and have no answers, then we need antidepressants instead of actual answers and solutions to what ails us.

[@silverstar603]

Nothing new about it. I say this as someone with stage 3 deep infiltrating endometriosis. It's the normally for " I feel sick" and " there is nothing wrong, it's all in your mind "

[@hanac5586]

As someone with an anxiety disorder, anxiety can definitely cause physical symptoms BUT it would be important to rule out other medical issues before the symptoms are blamed on anxiety.

[@rae672]

My husband has been in remission for 14 months. Stage 4 colorectal cancer metastasized to his liver and lungs. He went to Vanderbilt hospital in TN for treatment. Before treatment we were told 18 months to live in our home town. Never lose hope. God be with you.

[@yusanda741]

What kind of treatment did your husband have ? I need hope for my mom , 75 yo , they only offered her chemotherapy.

[@lizakamomboyd6965]

I’m praying now! To God be the Glory!

[@rae672]

@@yusanda741 the first doctor said surgery immediately and then chemo until death ☠️ I heard God say "Try Vanderbilt" We asked the surgeon that next week and he said, "No way. He won't survive the wait list but I'll call and ask for you to get the ball rolling." Dr. Eng at Vanderbilt hospital in Nashville saw us right away. She ran a few tests and put him on an intense chemo regime. 8 hours of 4 chemo drugs (I'm sorry, I don't remember the names) every other week. In January they did 4 or 5 radiation treatments to his colon. The chemo and the radiation completely killed the 7cm tumor. Then, they did a robotic surgery on his lung in February 2023 and liver surgery in April 2023. No colostomy or anything. We are so blessed. I'm definitely not saying his treatment works for every patient but I am saying his doctor had hope and we had faith. God is awesome

[@anaferguson5135]

I am a nurse and this happens so frequently! They never take minority or women in general seriously. Its all in their head. They say its anxiety or they are depressed. I hate when this happens. You are such a courageous woman!

[@missdiagnosis2530]

Absolutely ! I went to jail for trespassing at the ER trying to get help

[@deendrew36]

@@missdiagnosis2530that doesn’t even make sense.

[@Uncle-Smart-Alec]

I wish you wouldn't politicize and thus lessen the criminal issue of medical Gaslighting.The same thing happens with older "privileged " men.(like my uncle Issac RIP)

[@missdiagnosis2530]

I shared my experience to speak to how we’re ignored..it’s the gaslighting and blatant disregard that causes people harm. I had MRSA and told to go to primary care which was weeks to get in, I needed iv antibiotics and the ER refused to treat

[@allisonandrews4719]

I left the medical field after my experience as a patient. I survived only because after 4 years of being brushed off I was formally diagnosed with some version of hysteria. Yup. Not to my face. But on my aftercare summary. I ended up going to a functional medicine RN and getting real care. And I became a lawyer. Let’s burn this system down now.

[@bettyanderson6159]

I’m Betty ,. And I have Colon Cancer to Stage 4 ,..and this week wast my 2 second round of chemo ,. I listen to your whole testimony and I send my love to you and prayers every day,..

[@claudiest-laurent1405]

Hello ...I have the same thing...4 chemio 28 days radio and back chemio this time is hard but to listen to her was inspirational ❤

[@patriciaharlen4823]

Prayers for your healing, Betty.

[@MMacAttack]

My prayers are with you Betty 🙏🏻✝️❤️

[@annettecabezas6697]

God bless you, drink loads off carrot juice. People have cured there cancer with carrots and green juices. It could really help along with your medical treatment.

[@carynmartin6053]

I only wish that could be true today, as it was back a few decades before all our soil became nutrient deficient and pesticide overloaded!😮😢​@@annettecabezas6697

[@rosarodriguez4064]

Raquel may the Lord of Lords heal you from this cancer I believe it. Prayers send your way. 🙏🙏

[@ToniMonteroroman]

Psychedelics are just an exceptional mental health breakthrough. It's quite fascinating how effective they are against depression and anxiety. Saved my life.

[@BestOffer-ii9ny]

Can you help with the reliable source I would really appreciate it. Many people talk about mushrooms and psychedelics but nobody talks about where to get them. Very hard to get a reliable source here in Australia. Really need!

[@fakiriayoub8087]

Yes, dr.porass. I have the same experience with anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction and Mushrooms definitely made a huge huge difference to why am clean today.

[@HAMZAPINE]

I wish they were readily available in my place. Microdosing was my next plan of care for my husband. He is 59 & has so many mental health issues plus probable CTE & a TBI that left him in a coma 8 days. It's too late now I had to get a TPO as he's 6'6 300+ pound homicidal maniac. He's constantly talking about killing someone. He's violent. Anyone reading this Familiar w/ BPD know if it is common for an obsession with violence.

[@BestOffer-ii9ny]

Is he on instagram?

[@fakiriayoub8087]

Yes he is dr.porass.

[@artbmarshall]

I lost my wife to cervical cancer at 37 a couple years ago. My heart goes out to you. I’m also a PA so if you need any help navigating or just need someone to explain a few things, I’m happy to help.

[@beebzzzzzz]

Sorry for your loss.

[@juanio7036]

Sorry for your loss. I’ve been dealing with lower abdominal pain and shortness of breath when my lower abdominal gets inflamed. I’ve had test after test and they still can find what’s wrong.

[@BearyBoo-tv4vx]

My condolences goes to you and your family🙏🏾🤍

[@BearyBoo-tv4vx]

⁠@@juanio7036 Hey, I’m not the original commentor but I hope you can find the root of the problem definitely try if you can get more opinions on from GI doctor and primary care doctor I hope you can get a relief from it and feel better.

[@shawnwilson407]

I lost my spouse to pancreatic way too young and my mom to colon. Let’s cure these cancers. I’m sorry for your loss

[@paisley8519]

What I find so disturbing is how grateful she feels that the ER doctors took her seriously. Understand that I know WHY she’s grateful, I’m just angry that she has to feel grateful for something that should be normal. That women and minorities have to convince the medical community to take us seriously … it’s just not ok.

[@Itsmemommio]

I think it’s because her OWN doctor didn’t take her seriously. That makes me so mad dude.

[@mimi3118]

ìt's still a good thing to be grateful and see the good deeds of others..it helps to be a good person as being angry on things that can not be reversed anymore will just make us a bitter person which is not good for our body, mind and soul.

[@suzee_bee]

I agree with your comment 100%. No woman should need to beg for medical help. To be grateful yes it’s always good to be grateful but to need to beg to find yourself in the grateful space is sadly an experience that mostly women will experience with medical professionals. I wish any woman going through this the strength to carry on & advocate for yourself!

[@lets_talk372]

Q

[@brip799]

Like they can’t have their cake and eat it too right? They put women through more pain with their procedures because they think “women can handle more pain than men” right? So if that is the case, you would think if a woman goes to the ER, they would take it seriously yet.. they don’t. I might have cancer and I an terrified because I have swollen lymph nodes and one is in a bad place (left supracavicular) and I saw drs for the symptoms I had before this and was ALWAYS told that it was “no big deal” Im too stressed, its just anxiety, you need to chill out and take some probiotics, do yoga etc… and if I do find out I am in a bad terminal place because it could be gastric spread to lymph nodes … i cant do shit about it. And I am 32 since december 😢

[@truckingwithtobee]

I was 28 when I got diagnosed with cervical cancer you have to be your own advocate because the doctor thought that I was crazy also and brushed off my symptoms and told me I was fine. I even had a Pap smear and they told me everything was fine. But something in my gut told me something was wrong and I was absolutely right had a not went to that second doctor and found the cervical cancer I would’ve been dead a long time ago. I am 49 years old.

[@mamaysucanal2229]

What were your symptoms??

[@Luckoftheirish1]

How did the 2nd doctor find the cancer? What tests were run if the pap smear was negative?

[@truckingwithtobee]

@@Luckoftheirish1 Another papsmear found it! Meaning the first was done wrong!!!

[@truckingwithtobee]

@@mamaysucanal2229 Dull pain in lower left quadrant. That was the ONLY sign!

[@iamshakuri]

Hello, could you please share. What were your symptoms? Please, please share.

[@inbox_au]

I’m sick of doctors saying you are too young to have cancer - cancer doesn’t discriminate and doctors need to take into account all your symptoms.

[@vickipurvis7489]

You are a beautiful and courageous young woman. Thank you for sharing your story and journey. I am currently a lung cancer survivor from stage four. Still on every three month scans and brain MRI. There are medical advances made every day. I believe in you and your attitude helps immensely. ❤

[@ThePatientStory]

Thank you for sharing. Would you be interested in sharing your story on our platform? If so, are you able to fill out our intro survey: thepatientstory.com/share-your-story/

[@benjaminnapoli1834]

What symptoms did you have, im having bad hair loss heart and chest pain and doc keep trying to say its anxiety but I feel like im gonna pass out most days

[@turtle_jones]

We went to high school together. Same graduating class. I’m so terribly sorry that life has thrown you this crazy curveball Raquel. Your mental fortitude is inspiring. I hope your additional/future medical opinions are more fruitful. Keep fighting. -TJ

[@sidneylowery1543]

Why does this make me wanna weep 😭

[@michelemcguire8995]

​@@sidneylowery1543cause it's heartbreaking

[@michelemcguire8995]

Its never a good thing to say it's your cancer..because it's not you,it's a monster and you didn't invite it in..prayers for strength comfort peace and healing in the mighty name of JESUS CHRIST AMEN and Thankyou Father YHVH ❤

[@tuulidahlm8930]

❤

[@nickterry4487]

My mom passed away from stomach cancer this past December 2023. She was originally diagnosed in 2021 but had been seeking a proper diagnosis as early as late 2018. It’s been heartbreaking going through her old notes as she saw all sorts of doctors who either couldn’t find what was wrong with her or attributed her symptoms to anxiety. She knew something was wrong and was literally told it was just in her head

[@user-nt3cn1ee5i]

I am deeply sorry for your lost. I cannot imagine how you must be feeling. Keep sharing.

[@marilynromero5022]

Sorry about your mom what were her symptoms?

[@xerilaun]

❤

[@abbosimmo]

the amount of times I am told it’s all in my head to be proven correct in my hunches upon testing, it’s sad

[@pembebulut2781]

My mom has the same symptoms, as my grandpa passed away from stomach cancer. I've been cooking COW FEET and KNEE for my mom weekly for 5 months, which is full of collagen. That healed her stomach and intestine!

[@mikeyg6631]

I'm a male of 48 and I'm experiencing similar but not the same symptoms. I've made a promise to my bestfriend and wife that I will go at the end of this month March 2024 to my family doctor and tell him the truth about what's happening and I'm scared as hell! However on a positive note thank you for sharing your experience and I hope you have a full recovery and you beat this!!

[@user-ky6fi2jm9r]

Am in the same boat. These types of videos have made me take my vague feelings of unwellness to a proactive level. Better to know early than later. I speak from a recent experience, Dec. 2023. Now will follow up with testing for other symptoms as I easily disregarded last year's symptoms as being from stress. I dodged a bullet, figuratively speaking, last year and want to keep that winning streak going.

[@mikeyg6631]

@user-ky6fi2jm9r best of luck to you!! And also keep us posted. I go in tomorrow to see my Doctor and I will follow up on this thread good or bad God Bless you and thank you for sharing!!

[@user-ky6fi2jm9r]

@@mikeyg6631 Just saw your response and am late in wishing you luck. Hope all went well for you and that your news was good news. In Dec 2023 had a lower endoscopy with no symptoms but both doctors ( 2 scopes in one month ) prepped me mentally for a diagnosis of cancer before the results came back after each procedure. The size, shape, & location was a concern. Two scopes = diagnosed at a clinic & removed at a hospital. I did not feel particularly poorly for nearly a year until it was removed. I took the occasional sharp abdominal pain in stride as not meaning much though it was worse by the year mark. After it was removed I surprisingly had more energy. I did not expect to feel anything other than the lack of sharp intestinal pain. 100% of the time this type/size/location turns cancerous at around the 10-year mark and by then will be a stage 4 most likely. Will get scoped again at the 6-month mark. If any evidence of abnormality/of it growing back then I'll need a bowel resection even though no symptoms and no diagnosis of cancer. I am grateful for the videos on YT. A few of them provided by doctors for their colleagues/residents were extremely informative.

[@vnewen2157]

@@mikeyg6631you both let us know how it went - this small comment thread can be your second support community Good luck to y’all 🤞

[@carynmartin6053]

Best of luck to you, as I empathize with you and have similar symptoms and fear😮❤

[@kathleentaylor8840]

This speaker has the most soothing voice. I could listen to her all day.

[@manymoms920]

I wish this beautiful young woman well. I hope you recover

[@user-fb8uw1ui5x]

So do i, it's truly sad 😮😮😮...

[@skygazer6898]

These doctors that dismiss their patients symptoms, should lose their jobs. My mum was one of those whose symptoms were fobbed off as various ailments for around 8 months, so by the time she was referred for tests, it was too late as her cancer had already spread. Raquel is a rather unique young woman as is an inspiration to many. Best of Luck Raquel, I hope you are well.

[@astyk150]

Lack of punishment for wrong doing in this profession

[@Bob-kt5jn]

They get protection from the state and the governors laws. They will never lose their license.

[@yellowyellowyellow7894]

Yes, it’s stealing money. We don’t accept incomplete jobs with other people, then we shouldn’t with doctors

[@zg6879]

I can’t help but notice how grateful she felt just to be heard, listened to and taken seriously as an adult woman with concern. As a woman myself, I can’t help but feel angry that I can relate. Why should anyone’s positive medical experience be centered on “someone finally listened to me”? Such insight that our country, our society, our national culture, really, is wrong and therefore breaking apart.

[@steinbauge4591]

It is criminal for a doc to dismiss such clear symptoms, period. That doc should be removed from the profession.

[@130crowd]

The Patient Story is just a beginning! You are an extremely gifted public speaker who could benefit countless others facing this very challenging diagnosis. Your serenity is inspiring. You will be in my thoughts. I am rooting for you. Very best of luck.

[@JackAtkins-xz5wi]

Buy two boomerangs

[@frankjamesbonarrigo7162]

she's a great communicator. I wish her well

[@user-jy8ql5qh9u]

I was diagnosed 7 years ago with colon rectal stage 4. I'm currently with City of Hope in Duarte, California. I had the surgery in 2019 and I'm NED. I'm a firm believer of second and third opinion and please continue to advocate for yourself. Sending prayers and healing vibes your way. REM

[@lilivalencia3575]

My husband was diagnosed with with stage 4 colon cancer it has spread to liver and lymph nodes his been on chemo for 1 now and we had to get a second opinion with city of hope they said he is a surgery candidate but want him on chemo to shrink as much as they can and so far it has shrunk he is In Gods holy hands 🙌 as long as there is life there is hope Amen

[@lilivalencia3575]

I year of chemo that’s why I meant to say

[@ana_day7]

🙌

[@arellytran]

Do you know if city of hope takes medical?

[@user-jy8ql5qh9u]

I believe they do take medical ​@@arellytran

[@williamparker1085]

as i watch these stories, I am reminded of how lucky I am to be approaching 76 with only an enlarged prostate and some extra bathroom visits each day......best of luck to you and others facing these issues especially at such a young age

[@johnlees3696]

Same age as you Fenbedazol if it turns .check it out.

[@violetg7315]

My sister died at age 36 from Colon cancer. I was able to schedule a bunch of tests right away and been followed for 24 years so far, all because she was my first degree relative. I hope you fight and survive your cancer. I can tell you are strong!!

[@naomisgram1]

Same, my mom had it, she did survive it, however my sister and I have been diligent in getting tested because she had it. We have had polyps removed before they glad a chance to turn into anything bad. Insist on a colonoscopy if you are young, if you have any symptoms!

[@BearyBoo-tv4vx]

My condolences to you and your family 🥺😞

[@wifinet8838]

What year did she die?

[@violetg7315]

@@wifinet8838 1997

[@violetg7315]

@@wifinet8838-1997

[@NicoleL8600]

I’m not moved to comment much on social media, but just wanted to say how much respect and admiration I have for Raquel and the handling of her diagnosis. ❤ Her mature and rational handling of such a difficult diagnosis is incredible. All I can do is to hope and pray that she continues to find strength, love and support in her journey.

[@ScarlettEmerald4]

I learned a long time ago that it's so important to be your own advocate. Don't be afraid to get in their face and make them hear and see you. It's incredibly frustrating.

[@dianacabanova5776]

My daughter in law was also dismissed as having post baby issues. She was diagnosed in April 2023 and died in May 2023. She was 27 years young and a new mom. 💔💔.

[@HopeofGlory-qx4lk]

🫶🏽🤍

[@gailmoore7068]

Ohhh no!! Your family must be devastated. So sorry to hear this.

[@melgrant7404]

How awful. So sorry to hear that.❤

[@stelladowsett7151]

That is tragic, I am so sorry for your loss. Condolences to the family.❤

[@Zoleankico4267]

I’m sooo sorry!!!! Most healthcare workers, or (deathcare), are absolutely awful now. They don’t listen, they make judgement calls based on appearance! Yes that happens ALL THE TIMEI!!! I’m so fed up, unless I’m bleeding or need an antibiotic, I don’t want to go back anymore.

[@glodybadose]

My wife and I prayed and we believe God is in control. 🙏🏿

[@louellenstevens501]

I am sorry that you were a victim of medical gaslighting. You are in my prayers.

[@fionasmom6254]

Unfortunately, this happens a lot. What gets me is when women are dismissed by female physicians! I had a relative who had a female PCP. My relative had a chronic sore throat. It was a deep, glandular soreness, not a raw surface soreness like strep. The PCP kept treating her for sinus infection, for WEEKS. Finally, relative saw a different doctor who immediately sent her for some other tests which found lymphoma. Fast forward multiple times in and out of remission, chemo, etc. She got a clean bill of health from the clinic in TX except for "one tiny hot spot that we will watch and wait to see if it changes." 2 weeks later, she started having severe back pain. Her PCP, who KNEW her history, diagnosed it as a muscle strain and prescribed PT! Long story short, this went on for a couple of months. It was her lymphoma, now in her spinal column. She is no longer on this earth.

[@juliekrol]

I’m sorry 😞

[@eileenwatt8283]

Oh no!

[@sargambelwanshi6953]

Can please elaborate on her throat symptoms I'm scared. Experiencing from 1 month suddenly.

[@DanielleRadicanin]

Heartfelt condolences for your loss.💔 Doctors have become far too dismissive of women's symptoms.

[@sofip.4539]

Oh my gosh I’m so sorry for your loss.. similar thing happened to my nephew this past month. His lack of breath was attributed to a “viral infection” when in it was metastasized cancer to the lungs. He was only 26 years old. 😢

[@tammyo8922]

I’m so sorry you were dismissed & not taken seriously for so long 😭 I can relate. Thank you for speaking up. 🙏💕

[@cathyatchison7649]

OMG I am sorry you going through this. You are truly a beautiful person. I wish you all the best. Thank you.

[@patriciaharlen4823]

My 41 year old male cousin passed away from this cancer after being told he was to young to have it. He symptoms for a couple of years. He left behind a beautiful 2 year old son and a devastated family.

[@p.hearting9992]

The statistics are changing. Doctors go based on science based studies. But what a lot of Dr don’t seem to notice is that a lot more young people are getting colon cancer I blame the American food industry for it.

[@jjse79]

The person who told him that is an ignorant! Cancer has no age, its idiotic to think otherwise.

[@AL-rf2fr]

I will be praying for you everyday that the hand of God touches your body and Life and you come through all of this 100 percent cured. Thank you so much for your honesty and being an inspiration to others to take note of their health. What signs to look for and what you went through.

[@kathleenryan8545]

Wonderful advice, Raquel! Your amazing attitude will see you through this disease! Please post again, we all want to hear how you are doing, so we can continue to send you positive messages!

[@92TampaChick813]

She’s such a beautiful soul ❤ she changed a lot of lives for the better for sure.

[@markrhodes3983]

You're such a special person and a blessing for sharing your health journey situation. Bless you your in my thoughts.

[@TJD63]

Raquel you are so very lovely on so many levels. You are in my prayers. Thank you for your bravery sharing your story. Im certain what you are experienceing is challenging at the very least but I wanted to say you look wonderful in the video and the photos you shared. Love and support to you! Your video and advice has probably already changed lives! Bless you!

[@BodySnatcher1816]

I have not watched this video yet. The title and description caught my eye because it read basically that the Dr said it was all in your head. PEOPLE!!!! Get a 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or however many different opinions if you are ever told that! Change drs immediately if they ever tell you that! Always be your own medical advocate and never give up until you have answers that you are comfortable with.

[@BodySnatcher1816]

@@futoooob exactly! I get it that some people may feel that just because they have a medical degree, their word is set in stone. They are people just like us, who have a degree in medicine. We all have the PhD in our own bodies and 100% should listen to it.

[@Zoleankico4267]

I’ve been to 5 different doctors in the last 6 years. They are all the same, and if you change doctors, it’s actually a mark against you! They are ALL trained by the same programs funded by big pharma. It’s NOT going to get better, when the agenda is to treat humans like cattle!

[@LaurenAnyone]

It’s really hard to even get one doctor appointment when I live in Canada. Sometimes having multiple opinions isn’t a feasible option

[@BodySnatcher1816]

@@LaurenAnyone I’m sorry. Then you advocate for yourself and make this doctor you are dealt with listen to you. The whole healthcare system is broken from greedy ass people. Most of the time it’s not the doctor’s fault but the administration telling them they only have like 5 mins per patient. It’s a sad world we live in.

[@wethenorth6437]

May god bless you my dear and send you strength, peace and the comfort of knowing that you are never alone on your journey. No matter the outcome you may very well have saved lives by telling your story and that in itself is a precious gift to us all.

[@laurafederico8835]

You’re so brave and rational about this! Please keep us posted. Many of us out here are sending you healing energy and praying for you ❤🙏☀️

[@DaSmoothClutch]

Raquel you are one of the strongest, most inspiring people I've seen in a long time. I pray for you and anyone going through cancer. You will get through this!

[@LS-lq1pc]

Wow, you radiate so much optimism and positivity! You are a truly incredible person. May God bless you!

[@laurawilliams5363]

I love this woman's history and the way she has shared her CA dx. We think a lot a like! I have multiple myeloma and I was dx w/ diffuse systemic scleroderma 6 years ago. This woman is intelligent, and I think she is doing everything the correct way. I worked in the medical field for 49 yrs before I had to medically retire. You are doing a great job with advocating for yourself as well. Positive energy being sent to young lady!

[@katharina5159]

Dear Rachel, I have sb in my family going through this type of cancer. They way you speak, I love it❤ you are in my thoughts❤❤

[@missmayraa.4862]

Praying for you Raquel, God is still doing miracles..stay Strong. ❤

[@susanbossardmair1789]

You're a gift to anyone dealing with cancer or a major health issue. I appreciate your perspective and advice on advocating for yourself. Thank you for sharing your story. You're right about doctors having a bias when treating patients. I hope your story is used to train new physicians in med school. Bless you. ❤

[@gailmoore7068]

You, Raquel, have done widespread and effective work here. I am proud of you (if I may be) and so very impressed by you, and so sorry for your considerable pain. Plus, you have some great friends willing to point out your habits!😆 Wishing you everything good forever; you have more than paid your dues!❤

[@carolinarochapinto8552]

Praying for you and sending love from Portugal. Your calmness is beyond inspiring.

[@dianacabanova5776]

Praying for your Rachel that the treatment continues to work for you ! Fight for yourself!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@ajxsmine2836]

Sending The love and Prayers for continuous healing. God Bless.🙏🏼💜

[@faithf5846]

Beautiful articulate woman. Thank you for telling your story. It’s a struggle to get the Medical care we need but you stayed strong ! You got this.! 🙏💜

[@totalclutter]

You are such an inspiring woman. Your generosity with your story will definitely help so many. I wish you success with your surgery. Thank you!

[@EN-cb8ut]

I can't imagine what you must be going through... You are so brave!!! I hope you feel better soon and that you manage to heal!!!❤

[@georgiamorena2145]

I had been in and out of emergency clinics in hospitals for constant dizziness. Finally, one doctor ran out patience, perhaps, told me “it’s all in your head”. After a few years, more symptoms are manifesting: double vision, palpitations, constant dizziness, sleepless nights, and bulging eyes. Finally, after several tests, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism.

[@stephaniewilson5284]

You could have died that's serious shit.I would confront every doctor you went to previously.

[@TickleMyPickleOkay]

You would think an order of blood work could have save you all these years.

[@juanio7036]

How does the ER not run blood test for thyroid, this doctors are absolute idiots. Some

[@pembebulut2781]

get an oil diffuser and place 8-9 drops of iodine solution. The room will fill with iodine vapor & healing will come as you inhale the air.

[@katie0303]

Thank you for sharing your story. I pray that the chemo shrinks the cancer to allow for a surgery. You deserve a chance. God bless you.

[@MargueriteAtHome]

I can only imagine how many people this one solitary video will help. Thank you for being so willing to share your story! 💕

[@doordashindiva]

You are AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!! I THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOO MUCH for sharing your story! I pray you have a speedy recovery, I pray you are healed and delivered from this demon of a disease! I'm glad you're not letting this completely tear down your spirts and you remain hopeful. Hoping for the absolute BEST for you!

[@amandapirot1022]

Wishing you the best possible outcome in your treatments. You are a brave, self-aware, and poised woman.

[@wendydarling1745]

God Bless you! Your attitude really does make a difference. You are a beautiful person.

[@cristinaferrara6966]

Thank you for sharing your story, Raquel. Your strength and courage is admirable. Wishing you well. Hope you get opportunities to be doing things you enjoy. You deserve happiness.

[@jacquelineclement4193]

Thank you so much. I've had several of these specific symptoms and so far don't feel taken seriously. Bless you in your quest to get the care and treatment YOU want. And, you are beautiful .

[@alohatvj]

I am so happy the ER discovered your cancer ♋️. So sorry to hear your primary doctor didn't take you seriously. Hang in there I am praying 🙏 to you get surgery in the near future 🙏 ❤️.

[@soniamaskell1726]

Thank you so much for sharing with us . Very brave and I am sure this video will help everyone to keep an eye and share it 🙏

[@solsuso9962]

Thank you for sharing your story. I'm wishing you and everyone a speedy full recovery and good health for the future 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@brenda1657]

God Bless You Raquel. You have the perfect attitude to heal and are very strong. I wish you the best in this journey to heal your body.❤

[@bluesmoke8826]

You are a super intelligent woman and I hope you make out of this. Prayers for you

[@artandrea5348]

Wow....that primary Dr should have also known that those were common colorectal cancer symptoms! I don't understand why these drs dismiss everyone who is young anymore!? Its so infuriating. I'm so sorry! Praying 🙏

[@Barb6106]

What an incredible young woman. Your speaking voice and intellect and full grasp of all the medical terms! Well said.. so calm and rational. Thank you for your share. Bless you💕

[@mariaobrien284]

I think you’re a beautiful lady and so brave to tell your journey with cancer. I wish you a wonderful life, because you deserve to be well and healthy. My best wishes and prayers to you from Dublin, Ireland ❤.

[@kyliejackson-bell810]

Truly hope everyone works out for you. So brave and inspirational ❤

[@carolinamoreno7372]

Raquel, eres toda una luchona y guerrera. Tu actitud positiva nos inspira mucho! Te mando un fuerte abrazo! Dios te bendiga!

[@dollsofvalley]

What a courageous and beautiful soul you are! THANK YOUUUU FOR SHARING YOUR STORY 🙏🏽

[@yahniadore]

Thank you for sharing your story. May God bless and continue to keep you Raquel! Such a beautiful, courageous human. 💜🙏🏾

[@amtz924]

You are so encouraging and strong! my bff was dismissed as well. His story sounds similar to yours. Fight on ❤

[@AbstractMindsThinkAlike]

I'm praying for you Raquel in Jesus Christ mighty name

[@elliet1754]

You are so strong and amazing!! Thank you for being brave enough to share your story and to help get the word out there of symptoms! Bless all of these ER doctors that takw that extra moment to really LISTEN to concerns. My ER doctor in 2014 is the reason I am alive today, because of him taking the extra steps of care in requesting to admit me due to symptoms and to air on the side of caution- my brain aneurysm was diagnosed with an MRI the next morning.

[@kenrandall5680]

Hi Raquel. Your positivity blows me away, wow! I don’t know you but want to tell you I’m in your corner praying for you. I plead to the universe that you are blessed with an abundance of time to experience the beauty that you so much deserve. I’ve never come across a spirit as beautiful as yours. ❤️

[@nakitatrevino4651]

I am 35 and I have diverticulitis. Lately I’ve been having so many flare ups and it scares me that it can turn into cancer. I have days that I have major diarrhea and some that are constipated. It’s scary. I pray to God to heal you and work a miracle.

[@emmarichards-forbes7682]

There is no link between diverticular disease and colon cancer.

[@juanio7036]

Eliminate sugar and bad carbs. Change diet to a more keto style. Try a good pre/probiotic. Do research on what kind of supplements (vitamins, herbs, minerals) help with your diagnosis. You don’t need big pharma pjlls to heal (not a doctor) just someone who been through a lot of gastrointestinal issues

[@nakitatrevino4651]

@@juanio7036 Thank you so much. I truly appreciate your advice. This has been hard. Slowly learning on dieting and accepting that this is all on me. (How I eat.) NOT EASY.

[@izzahilyas4080]

Hey, wishing you healing, can I ask what are your symptoms?

[@jamesdecius122]

I’ll pray for you sister. Heartfelt

[@7natalieantonio]

Raquel you are a beautiful & courageous woman . I admire your strength in time of adversity . This video was so informative & you articulate everything so well . I learned so much , I’m so sorry for your diagnosis & the manner you got dismissed. My prayers are with you !

[@Randimal762]

Incredible strength from this young woman. Thank you for sharing your story and promoting awareness.

[@marycartella6258]

Thank you for sharing your experiences with colon rectal cancer. May God bless you as you stay on your journey for treatments.

[@bettyconnearney7943]

Raquel just found your site. I will put you on my prayer list. Praying all gets better for you🙏🙏🙏🙏❤

[@KBClive]

Whats her website?

[@Aliciaacarina]

Sending prayers to you Raquel. You are truly inspiring and are advocating for people to take care of themselves and go to the dr. 🙏🙏🙏

[@cathbeesley7070]

Raquel, all my love and support for you. You will get there, you are so lovely and selfless to come on line to help people, like yourself, who are battling this disease, arming them with awareness of symptoms to watch out for and act on.

[@camillesolange182]

You're so strong and nice. I wish you all the best!

[@deendrew36]

The dismissal of young women, minorities, etc is NOT ok. They need to change that in the medical education.

[@hansheiser3868]

I think one possible cause for dismissal of symptoms in POC, women and minorities is because those very people are under-represented in medical schools across the US. Until that changes, the problem will persist.

[@domesticatedwolverine4152]

Under-represented? So basically not enough Doctors of color to attend POC.

[@matthewthomasjames]

I’ve heard so many cancer stories of people being gaslighted who were white, and even who were men, so I believe it is just a problem which the medical field in general and not race or gender based.

[@Zoleankico4267]

@@hansheiser3868 Not! It’s because they’re trained this way!!! This is what happens when big pharma funds the colleges! Pushing BAD meds on EBERYONE! And if you don’t just shut up and do what they say, they get mad at you! No looking into root causes, just treating symptoms! Our “deathcare” system is a joke! ALL BY DESIGN!

[@princessigbo2631]

@@hansheiser3868Unfortunately, research shows these groups are also dismissed by doctors who look like them! 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@pucheumaureen1487]

You are so courageous Raquel. And your desire to want to spread the word about your conditions with the goal of helping others is admirable. Thank you. M. Pucheu, France

[@desiertoscacti5388]

You are such a sweet, composed woman. I wish you the very best for your health, be strong and remain an inspiration to all!

[@zimma2330]

the world is a better place with you in it darling. i wish you well.

[@user-fb5ze9fx7e]

Praying for you and hope you get that surgery soon.

[@crocadoodle7101]

Hi Raquel. Thank you for sharing your personal story with us. Getting a second opinion as you stated is sometimes crucial. When a situation happens that one is dismissed by the doctor yet the symptoms persist, it can be almost disorienting. (This too has happened to me.) Decisions for treatment are often made by asking “Does the benefit outweigh the risk?” The doctor will give their opinion, but your wish/need should be part of the process for making the surgical decision. Your calm and positive nature is admirable. Sending you love and peace.❤️

[@taragibbons6616]

You are amazing....thank you for sharing your exact symptoms and lab/diagnostics. I am truly sorry your symptoms were first ignored. You are handling such a tough diagnosis so incredibly well and ARE an inspiration to so many. THANK YOU! I wish you healing and blessings.