Deanna"s Cancer Journey

Hi, My name is Deanna Fox. In October of 2022, I had been experiencing cramps for about 2 weeks. I went to the gynecologist and nothing was found. So why the cramping? The pain went away for a couple of weeks until after Halloween. I knew something was wrong. I was so tired and had no energy. On November 15, 2022, I saw my primary doctor. She told me that she believed I had an infection in my colon. A bunch of tests were ordered. My doctor called me that evening and said the bloodwork shows inflammation in your body. You need a CT scan ASAP. I couldn't get an appointment until the following Tuesday. She said no I needed to go tomorrow. Luckily, I was able to get in. An hour after my CT scan my doctor called and told me a mass was found in my colon. The next step was to get a colonoscopy. The Monday after Thanksgiving I had a colonoscopy. On November 30, 2022, I received the dreaded phone call and heard the words you have Cancer. On December 7, 2022, I had a colectomy surgery. The surgeon took out 12 inches of my colon and the malignant tumor was 6.8 cm. My tumor was adenocarcinoma of the colon. the pathology revealed Stage 3B low risk. In January of 2023, I started chemotherapy. I did 4 cycles of chemo for 3 months. I am 6 and 1/2 weeks cancer-free. Unfortunately, I have been having pain for a month again. I was put on a diet to see if that would help but the pain is still there. My oncologist moved up my yearly CT scan. On Tuesday, I had a CT scan. There were several small nodules found near my abdomen and a bigger one near my spleen. Yesterday, we met with my oncologist. He is sending me to a surgeon who specializes in a different colon surgery. I will also be getting another colonoscopy. There is concern that my cancer has spread.

Within 40 days, we had to pay 15,000 dollars in medical bills. We are now facing more medical bills. We aren't sure of what is going on. I will be having many more tests and surgeries. Also, my husband is self-employed and has lost his big contract. I went back to work three weeks ago to help with finances but will now need to take a leave of absence. I may be facing more chemo and if so I won't be able to work. In January, we will have to pay another deductible.

I am just asking for help to support me and my family during this trying time.

Love,

Deanna Fox