When Katie Couric lost her husband, Jay Monahan, in 1997 from Colorectal Cancer Stage 4 with very few, if any, symptoms, I was 36 years old and not thinking about preventative procedures (son Ryan was in the midst of his leukemia treatment then). It was still a shocker for me, along with many people at that time, most notably Katie and her two young daughters, who were one and five years old. Husband and Daddy, Jay Monahan, died at 42 years old, nine months after his diagnosis.
Early screenings could have saved his life (though he wasn't at an age to get one!).
Katie became a tireless advocate and raised awareness of colorectal cancer by undergoing a colonoscopy that was taped and shown on NBC's "The Today Show." I didn't see it when it was aired, but I'm sure many people tuned in (I did watch the video before posting it here). There was a 20% uptick in appointments then for colorectal screenings.
This past Monday, I had my third colonoscopy. My first one at 47 years old. I was on the 10-year plan for follow-up visits after that first one, then on the five-year plan after the second due to polyps (removed), and now I'm on the seven-year plan for my next visit (I had two very small polyps, also removed).
The prep is not pleasant but tolerable and, from what I can discern, tailored to each individual. One still has to drink or take pills to empty the colon for a day or two, but I'll take it to prevent anything brewing in those parts that could wreak havoc for me and my family. My procedure was exactly 10 minutes - from wheels in to wheels out of the procedure room.
We live in a country that offers excellent medical care (overall). To have screenings (including mammograms) for prevention is practically a miracle compared to other countries worldwide! Whether there is a family history or not, screening is now recommended for everyone beginning at age 45! In May of 2021 (in the midst of a pandemic), The US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) lowered colorectal cancer screenings from 50 to 45 for adults at average risk.
Again, early detection and prevention is something we can do for ourselves and our loved ones. Don't delay in making an appointment or follow-up visit!
bSoleille!
Terri
Photo: Ready for the procedure!
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