WGN’s Mike Lowe Shares Health Journey
A Diagnosis at 40
Typically considered an older person’s disease, this year, about 20 percent of new colorectal cancer diagnoses will happen in people younger than 50. When his symptoms began in his early 40s, WGN’s Mike Lowe was not considered eligible for a colonoscopy. Ultimately, he did get a cancer diagnosis.
Mike’s Story
Mike has shared his story from day one of his treatment with the hope others won’t face the same fate. “Every morning now I take four pills right after breakfast, and then I have to take the same four pills right after dinner,” he said. “That’s just part of my life now, taking chemotherapy pills. … I’m going try to go into this cancer fight as strong as I can possibly be. I’m trying to do everything I normally do for as long as I can until I physically can’t do this.”
What is Stage 3 Colon Cancer?
Dr. Daniel Dammrich, an oncologist with Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, explained that Stage 3 colorectal cancer means the cancer has spread from the original organ, colorectal, into the lymph nodes in the surrounding area, but it has not spread distantly in the body to other organs, such as the liver or the lungs or the bones. Stage 3 colorectal cancers are still a curable form of cancer.
Why More Younger People are Diagnosed
Dammrich said that there’s no clear answer to why more younger people are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, but he believes environmental factors like sedentary lifestyle, diets high in fats and low in fiber, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and other risk factors are contributing to the rise of incidence in this younger population.
A Strong Support System
Lowe has had a strong support system by his side. “It’s always nice to have support from anyone, but for my parents to be there I think you always get a little bit of strength when your parents are with you,” Lowe said. “It’s an extra layer of protection for you.”
Chemotherapy and Radiation
In addition to chemotherapy, Lowe is also undergoing radiation. WGN’s Medical Watch team was with him during his first day. “Day one is in the books,” he said. “It really wasn’t as hard as I thought it might be, especially the radiation went by in less than 10 minutes and I didn’t even get to see a laser. … One day down and about six weeks left of this, 29 more sessions.”
Conclusion
Mike Lowe’s journey is a reminder of the importance of listening to your body and seeking medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms. With a strong support system and determination, he is facing his cancer diagnosis head-on.
FAQs
* What is Stage 3 Colon Cancer?
+ Stage 3 colorectal cancer means the cancer has spread from the original organ, colorectal, into the lymph nodes in the surrounding area, but it has not spread distantly in the body to other organs, such as the liver or the lungs or the bones.
* Why are more younger people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer?
+ There is no clear answer, but environmental factors like sedentary lifestyle, diets high in fats and low in fiber, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and other risk factors are believed to be contributing to the rise of incidence in this younger population.
* What is the importance of listening to your body?
+ If you are experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, constipation or diarrhea, blood in your stool, you should seek attention with your medical professionals immediately.
