Journey to the Summit: Cancer Patient Celebrates Remission with Care Team

Kate’s Story: The Importance of Early Detection

For Kate, managing a busy schedule of work, family and other responsibilities is part of her daily routine. She thrives on staying active and enjoys making time for her favorite hobbies like crafting and perfecting the art of sourdough bread-making. Beyond that, she has a love for the outdoors, frequently going on hikes and long walks to recharge.

Despite her active lifestyle, at the age of 41, Kate noticed something worrisome for the first time - blood in her stool. Concerned, she sought advice from her former primary care provider, who assured her that it was likely due to hemorrhoids. Since she was still years away from the recommended colorectal screening age of 45 and with no other pressing symptoms, she decided to hold off on further testing. But when her father was diagnosed with colon cancer, she knew the cause was more serious than hemorrhoids.

Determined to take control of her health, she scheduled her first colonoscopy and was diagnosed with stage 2 colon cancer.

A Lifesaving Second Opinion  

Colorectal cancer is often thought to primarily affect adults over the age of 50. However, in recent years, healthcare providers have seen an increase in younger adults being diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer. Kate, at just 42 years old, was part of this staggering trend.

After months of experiencing symptoms that were initially misdiagnosed, Kate sought a second opinion at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). A decision that ultimately saved her life.

“You know your body,” says Kate, “After my symptoms were dismissed for so long, I’m glad I pushed and got another opinion at BIDMC. I found a team that listened to me. If I had waited, my treatment probably would’ve been much different.”

Kate underwent a comprehensive treatment plan that included six weeks of radiation therapy, a colectomy to remove a tumor in her colon, chemotherapy and a colectomy reversal.

Navigating a Cancer Diagnosis and Finding Support

Navigating an unexpected cancer diagnosis is a shock that no one can truly be prepared for. Through treatment, Kate leaned on her family and found a support system in her care team, Nurse Practitioner Jeanne Quinn, MS, APRN-BC and colon and rectal surgeon Evangelos Messaris, MD, that made all the difference.

As Kate reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the need for a “landing place” where she felt safe, supported and validated. For her, having that sense of comfort and security was crucial while navigating the challenges that came with her diagnosis.

“They are really amazing,” Kate says of her care team. “I felt very lucky I had that support. Going through everything I did, I needed a landing place to be as comfortable as possible. At BIDMC, they validate you and support you through whatever comes up.”

Reaching the Summit

As life returned to a new normal after treatment, Kate decided it was time to conquer a personal goal; climbing Mount Washington.

An avid hiker, reaching the summit of the highest peak in the northeast had always been a dream for Kate. One that her and her late husband had shared together. When Jeanne and Dr. Messaris learned of this lifelong goal, they were determined to help make it a reality. In 2024, the three of them set out to climb Mount Washington – together!

For Kate, reaching the summit was more than just a hike. It was a moment of closure. She explains it was her own way of celebrating four years since completing treatment, offering her a moment to reflect on her journey to remission and how far she had come.

“Getting to the top was out of this world,” says Kate. “It was also bittersweet. I had wanted to be there with my husband, but it was a closure to the treatment and getting through everything. It was my own ringing the bell.”

‘It’s One Day of Your Life’

Colorectal cancer often presents without any symptoms in its early stages, making regular screenings essential to detection and prevention. Kate’s decision to get screened proved to be lifesaving, as she was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a stage where it was still treatable.

Now four years into remission, Kate hopes that her story will help inform others about the importance of getting regular colorectal cancer screenings.

“Don’t wait for the warning signs to get screened. Even if you do not have symptoms or a known family history, a colonoscopy will give you peace of mind so you don’t have to worry,” says Kate. “It is one day of your life, and it can save your life. Take that small step to get screened and your future self will thank you.”

Early Detection Saves Lives

Most individuals with an average risk for colorectal cancer should start regular screening with colonoscopy at age 45. However, your provider may recommend starting regular screenings younger or at more frequent intervals based on your age, family history, risks and other factors.