In 2012, at the age of 44, Cheryl, known as @just.cherl on TikTok, received a life-altering diagnosis of stage 3c colon cancer.
Now a survivor, Cheryl uses her platform to educate others about the importance of recognizing early symptoms, emphasizing the signs she initially overlooked.
Cheryl admits she ignored symptoms for months, attributing them to stress, aging, or dietary choices. “I never thought these minor inconveniences could be life-threatening,” she shared in a recent TikTok video. Her journey from diagnosis to survival has fueled her mission to ensure others don’t make the same mistake.
The Five Symptoms Cheryl Overlooked
1. Persistent Fatigue: Cheryl often felt unusually tired but chalked it up to her demanding lifestyle.
2. Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite not changing her diet or exercise routine, she noticed the pounds slipping away.
3. Changes in Bowel Habits: Cheryl experienced shifts in stool consistency and frequency but dismissed them as dietary effects.
4. Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Mild, recurring cramping was another symptom she disregarded.
5. Rectal Bleeding: Perhaps the most alarming sign, she assumed occasional blood in her stool was due to hemorrhoids.
From Diagnosis to Advocacy
After her diagnosis, Cheryl underwent surgery and chemotherapy, eventually emerging cancer-free. The experience transformed her into a passionate advocate, leveraging #TikTok to raise awareness about colon cancer prevention and early detection.
“Colon cancer doesn’t discriminate,” Cheryl says in one of her videos, encouraging regular screenings. She highlights that the American Cancer Society now recommends colon cancer screening begin at age 45, earlier for those with a family history or risk factors.
“Don’t be like me if you are truly having issues, then go get checked,” she said. “Early detection is the key!! It’s ok to be nervous and afraid, but not to the point of doing nothing!”
Spreading Awareness Through Social Media
With over 100,000 followers, Cheryl’s TikTok page is a hub of education and encouragement. She shares personal anecdotes, debunks myths about colon cancer, and encourages open conversations about health. Her advocacy resonates with a diverse audience, particularly those who might not prioritize routine checkups.
“Pay attention to your body,” Cheryl advises. “Even the smallest signs can be your body’s way of telling you something’s wrong.”
The Importance of Screening
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the #UnitedStates, yet it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Cheryl urges everyone to speak with their healthcare providers about screenings, regardless of age.
For more information on colon cancer symptoms, prevention, and screening, visit the American Cancer Society’s website.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Early detection saves lives.
