CRC Patient Stories: Denelle
Trusting Your Instincts: Denelle’s Colorectal Cancer Journey
For Denelle, life in Wisconsin is rooted in both adventure and appreciation for the everyday. Living in the greater Milwaukee area, she enjoys traveling, reading, live music, and spending time outdoors with her family. “I love to travel but ultimately enjoy the diverse landscape (and climate, much to my dismay) that Wisconsin has to offer.”
Her life was full, and like many others, cancer was not something she expected to face. Denelle was diagnosed with early-onset colorectal cancer at age 34, part of a growing trend as cases continue to rise in people under 50.
Listening to Your Body
Denelle’s journey began with a symptom that is often overlooked or dismissed. “My primary symptom was rectal bleeding; in hindsight I had some bowel irregularity as well.” At first, she assumed it was something minor. “I initially thought I had hemorrhoids or a fissure which ultimately led me to make an appointment with my PCP.”
The decision to get checked was critical.
A Rollercoaster Diagnosis
What followed was a whirlwindof tests, uncertainty, and fear. “Diagnosis was extremely difficult!”
After being referred to a gastroenterologist, a colonoscopy revealed a rectal tumor. While biopsies were still pending, the likelihood was already clear. “They took several biopsies,but the doctor said there was a 99% chance it was cancer.”
Initial scans added another layer of anxiety, showing spots on her liver that raised concern for spread. “I was in shock and panic mode for a long time, especially after initial scans showed several spots on my liver.” Fortunately, further testing brought some relief. “I had biopsies which proved them benign, and I ultimately was diagnosed as a "high risk" stage III.”
Even so, the process was long and emotionally draining. “It was quite the rollercoaster and took about 6 weeks for all of the tests and treatment planning to be made.”
Biomarker Testing Shapes the Path Forward
At diagnosis, Denelle underwent genetic and tumor testing, which played a key role in determining her treatment options.
“The doctors initially tested the tumor for MSS/MSI status and it was classified as MSS.” MSS refers to microsatellite stable, and MSI refers to microsatellite instability. These are biomarker testing results that indicate a tumor’s ability to repair common genetic mistakes. 85% of colorectal cancers are microsatellite stable (MSS) like Denelle’s.
These results meant that certain treatments were not viable.
“This put many of the immunotherapy options off the table and I was offered TNT, so I would say it definitely informed my treatment plan.” TNT stands for total neoadjuvant therapy, which is treatment with chemotherapy and radiation before surgery.
Choosing a Treatment Path
Denelle faced a major decision about treatment after chemoradiation and chemotherapy: surgery or a non-surgical “watch and wait” approach.
“I had the option of going the watch and wait route, or "for sure have surgery" route.” With guidance from her care team, she chose the less traditional path. “My surgeon actually recommended I try watch and wait, which was a difficult decision but ultimately felt right.”
Her treatment began with an intensive course of chemoradiation, followed by chemotherapy.
“This route consisted of having 25 rounds of chemoradiation first (taking chemo pills and having radiation 5 days a week), having a brief break to recover, and then starting 8 rounds of FOLFOX chemo about a month later.”
While radiation was manageable at first, both treatments became more difficult over time. “Radiation overall felt easier to me than chemo, though I experienced many of the side effects expected. Both treatments got tougher as they went on.”
Balancing treatment with parenting and work added another layer of challenge. “It felt difficult as a parent to a young child and also managing work.” Support made a significant difference. “I was very lucky that both my and my partner's works were flexible and that we had familial support.”
Ultimately, her treatment was successful without the need for surgery. “I didn't have to have surgery afterwards because I had a complete response, and now get scans and a scope done every 3 months.”
The Mental Health Challenge
While the physical side of treatment was demanding, Denelle highlights another critical aspect of the cancer experience: mental health.
“I think the biggest challenge honestly was managing my mental health.” Fear and uncertainty were constant. “I felt so worried about the cancer spreading and how I was going to respond to treatment.” She also worried deeply about her family. “I worried about being a burden to my family as well as the impact it would have on my young son, who was 5 at the time.”
Seeking support was essential. “I saw my therapist regularly during this time and also leaned on my support system of friends and family.”
Navigating Survivorship
Today, Denelle is moving forward while continuing to navigate the lasting effects of treatment.
“Today I am overall doing okay!” One of those treatment-associated effects has been treatment-induced menopause, which brought its own challenges. “I am navigating survivorship and also menopause, which was caused by radiation.” Finding the right balance took time. “It was a bit rough while I started hormone therapy but luckily found a balance that seems to be working.”
Her experience has reshaped her perspective on life. “Cancer definitely taught me not to take my health fog ranted and also showed me that life can change in an instant.”
At the same time, she offers an important and honest reflection on survivorship.
“Sometimes I think there is a pressure to completely change your life around after something like this, but I also want to normalize that that isn't always the case. Sometimes surviving it is enough!”
A Message of Advocacy
Denelle encourages others to take an active role in their care.
“I would tell others to advocate for yourself or at least have someone you trust and is willing to help advocate for you!”
She emphasizes the importance of being informed and supported. “You know yourself best. In my experience it was best to have a lot of information so that I could make an informed decision. I also suggest getting a second opinion if you can and having a team of doctors you trust!”
Finding Community
Throughout her journey, connection with others made a meaningful difference.
“I just wanted to share that there is a great resource and community called Colontown that was really helpful for me, especially initially. It is also a place for caregivers as well.”
Denelle’s story is an important reminder to listen to your body, seek care when something feels off, and advocate for yourself every step of the way. Her experience also highlights the importance of mental health, support systems, and the many different paths survivorship can take.