Conquering Colon Cancer: Kristi's Inspiring Battle and Living Life with Stella

The Beautiful Bag

In this episode, host LeeAnne Hayden and guest Kristi Tanner discuss Kristi's journey with colon cancer and living with an ostomy. Here are the key discussion points highlighted from the episode:

1. Struggles with Colonoscopy Approval:

   • Kristi turned 50 in March 2020, just when the world was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. She didn't think she needed a colonoscopy since colon cancer wasn't in her family history.
   • Kristi began experiencing symptoms such as bleeding, painful bowel movements, and fatigue, which she initially didn't attribute to colon cancer.
   • It took significant effort and advocacy to get approval for a colonoscopy, including calling multiple times to ensure the process moved forward.

2. Diagnosed with Stage 3B Colon Cancer:

   • Kristi eventually received her colonoscopy and was shocked to learn she had colon cancer. The cancer was diagnosed as stage 3B, indicating potential lymph node involvement.
   • They discuss the symptoms Kristi experienced, including rectal bleeding, frequent bowel movements, cramping, and fatigue.

3. Treatment Plan and Challenges:

   • Kristi's treatment plan involved radiation and chemotherapy before surgery.
   • She faced conflicting opinions about whether she would need an ostomy, and there was uncertainty regarding the order of surgery and chemotherapy.

4. Coping with Ostomy:

   • Kristi discusses her initial hesitation and concerns about living with an ostomy. She shares how an ostomy nurse helped her come to terms with it, emphasizing that the ostomy saved her life.
   • She describes how she came to embrace her ostomy, named it Stella, and found humor in the situation.

5. Post-Treatment Activities:

   • Kristi shares how she maintained an active lifestyle after her treatment, working out regularly, even doing a Spartan Race with an ostomy.
   • They highlight the importance of staying active for physical and mental health.

6. Spreading Awareness:

   • Kristi encourages listeners to advocate for themselves and get necessary medical appointments promptly.
   • She emphasizes the need to remove the stigma associated with ostomies and discusses the importance of talking about colon cancer to raise awareness.

Kristi's story serves as an inspiring example of resilience, advocacy, and embracing life with an ostomy after facing colon cancer.