Stephen Workman, a resident of Halifax, received a call from FIT testing in Nova Scotia urging him to undergo a fecal immunochemical test for colon cancer. Despite initially avoiding the test, Stephen decided to proceed since his previous tests had been negative. After mailing in the test, he received an unexpected phone call instead of the usual letter, leading to concerns.
The FIT representative, Stephanie, informed Stephen of the potential outcomes of the test, including cancer, polyps, tumors, or a clean result, and offered a colonoscopy appointment. Despite the unpleasant prospect of the procedure, Stephen agreed to it, considering his existing Parkinson’s disease and the potential complications of additional treatments like chemotherapy.
Preparing for the colonoscopy involved following a strict diet and consuming a laxative, GoLYTELY, which proved to be a challenging experience due to his condition. The day of the procedure, accompanied by his supportive wife, Stephen navigated through the hospital, encountering moments of humor and reassurance from the medical staff.
During the colonoscopy, Stephen experienced discomfort but eventually received the relieving news that everything appeared normal. Grateful for the successful outcome and the diligence of his colonoscopist, Stephen highlighted the importance of timely screenings for colon cancer, emphasizing the ease and significance of completing the FIT test.
Reflecting on his journey, Stephen expressed gratitude for the support and care he received, acknowledging the importance of maintaining vigilance in managing his health conditions. His experience serves as a reminder of the value of early detection and proactive healthcare measures in preventing serious illnesses like colon cancer.