Colorectal Cancer Patient Stories
Mary Anne Barlow
Mary Anne Barlow
After experiencing about six months of symptoms, Mary Anne Barlow was diagnosed with rectal cancer in 2011 at the age of 55. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation at a local hospital, but was referred to Fox Chase Cancer Center for surgery, which turned out to be complex. After an abnormal Pap smear 18 months later, in the spring of 2013, Mary Anne returned to Fox Chase for surgery, this time undergoing a hysterectomy. "In 2016, I celebrated the five-year mark since my cancer diagnosis," she said. "I still go back to Fox Chase twice a year to see Dr. Farma and Dr. Bergman, and when I go there, everyone is so kind and special. They all know me. I am very grateful for Dr. Farma. The dedication he offers patients goes above and beyond what a doctor does. I truly do not have enough words to thank him."
Darryl Hall
Darryl Hall
When Darryl Hall was diagnosed with colon cancer, he was referred to a surgeon at a local hospital. After two colonoscopies and exploratory surgery, Darryl still felt he had no solid answers regarding his condition. He decided to seek a second opinion from a specialist at Fox Chase Cancer Center. Darryl had a completely different experience at Fox Chase, where he underwent surgery and chemotherapy. "I encourage other people like me to get a second opinion if they are not happy with their current treatment plan," he said. "Both my wife and I received the best of care at Fox Chase. We are grateful to our doctors, and we recommend Fox Chase to anyone needing cancer care. Today we are both doing well and can enjoy the time we spend together and with our five grandchildren."
Lauren Ricottone
Lauren Ricottone
As a nurse, I thought I had a good handle on my health. But in 2015, I went for a colonoscopy because I’d been experiencing rectal bleeding, and instead of a diagnosis I got the surprise of a lifetime.
Irene Cohen
Irene Cohen
I was 50 years old in 2002 when a routine mammogram detected a mass that turned out to be breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy at a community hospital and decided to have follow-up radiation therapy at Fox Chase.
Debbie Lech
Debbie Lech
I was 51 when I was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2012. My husband, Claus, and I had been married two years as of 2012, and were enjoying our life together with my two daughters and his two daughters and son.