Mom Thought Her Symptoms Were Menopause — Then She Was Diagnosed with Rectal Cancer at 42

### Rising Colorectal Cancer Rates Prompt Urgent Awareness as One Woman Shares Her Journey

Shannon Ivey, a 42-year-old single mother from Columbia, South Carolina, recently chronicled her harrowing experience with stage 3 rectal cancer in her memoir, *Welcome to the Sh*t Show: A Memoir of Colorectal Cancer and the Power of Self-Advocacy*. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the rising incidence of colorectal cancer among younger adults, a trend that has alarmed medical professionals and researchers alike.

For several months, Ivey experienced a host of unsettling symptoms, initially attributing them to what she believed was the onset of menopause. She reported seeing “mystery blood,” which she dismissed as typical spotting associated with this transition. Given her family history, wherein many women entered perimenopause at an early age, she did not consider a more serious condition could be at play.

“I never connected it to a bowel movement,” Ivey elaborated, highlighting her initial misunderstanding of the symptoms. Alongside the blood, she experienced changes in her stool, which had become “pencil-thin,” and a persistent urgency to visit the bathroom. She attributed these signs to long-standing gastrointestinal issues and attempted to tackle them through dietary adjustments, including increasing fibre intake and using a toilet stool to improve her position while using the bathroom.

Despite her efforts, Ivey’s health took a drastic turn over six months, during which she lost a notable 26 pounds. This significant weight loss occurred quietly, going unnoticed until a concerned comment from her child’s school bus driver prompted her to weigh herself, leading to a shocking realisation of how unwell she truly was. “I knew that I was very sick when I saw that number,” she recalled, signalling a moment of clarity regarding her deteriorating condition.

Ivey’s subsequent diagnosis of stage 3 rectal cancer was a wake-up call not only for her but also for health professionals observing alarming trends in colorectal cancer statistics. Recent findings from the American Cancer Society indicate that cases of colorectal cancer among individuals under 65 are rising sharply after a prolonged decline. Nearly half of all new colorectal cancer diagnoses are now occurring in this younger demographic, a significant shift that raises concerns about awareness and early detection.

The statistics show a troubling prevalence of rectal cancer in particular, prompting calls for heightened attention to the issue. As researchers delve into the factors behind this rise, they stress the importance of developing better screening methods and preventive measures. Many younger patients, Ivey included, are being diagnosed at more advanced stages of the illness, which often complicates treatment outcomes.

Ivey’s memoir not only details her personal battle against cancer but also emphasises the necessity of self-advocacy in healthcare. She encountered numerous hurdles in her journey to diagnosis, highlighting the importance of being informed and assertive regarding one’s health concerns. “People need to listen to their bodies and speak up,” she declared, noting that many women may overlook unexplained symptoms due to misconceptions or societal norms regarding health issues.

Ivey’s experience shines a light on the critical need for increased awareness of colorectal cancer symptoms among younger adults. Medical professionals urge that symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, and blood in stools should never be dismissed, regardless of a patient’s age.

Her story serves as a call to action for the wider community, underscoring the importance of education and open conversations about colorectal health. Through her advocacy, Ivey aims to empower others facing similar journeys, encouraging them to prioritise their health and seek timely medical advice.

As the conversation surrounding colorectal cancer evolves, Ivey continues to share her narrative, advocating for early screenings and further research. Her journey highlights the pressing need for society to confront this rising health issue directly in order to change the trajectory for future generations. With awareness and action, the hope is that more lives can be saved and experiences like Ivey’s can become less common.