I was only 30 years old when I was diagnosed with Stage IIIC rectal cancer. Treatment included surgery, requiring a permanent colostomy followed by six weeks of radiation treatments. I didn't know if I would ever feel like myself again. After a while, I came to realize that the only limitations I have as an ostomate and cancer survivor are those I make up. I decided to just accept my "new normal" and get on with living a full, active, and joyous life. I just had to accept myself for who I am...me, with different internal plumbing.  That was 28 years ago and I am enjoying that active, joyous life including: surfing, biking, hiking, kayaking, golfing, and diving.  In 2011, I was selected as a Greatest Comebacks winner.  I was included in a group of ostomates who have not allowed our change in plumbing to stop us from enjoying life and doing all we desire to do. CLICK HERE for a video of the 2011 Greatest Comeback winners.

 

I find great reward in giving back to the cancer survivor and ostomate communities through work with the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org), United Ostomy Association of America (www.ostomy.org), and Colon Cancer Alliance (www.ccalliance.org.)