Turning 50: A Doctor's Mission to Save Lives

Fifty Years, One Mission: Preventing Colon Cancer

I never set out to be just a gastroenterologist—let alone spend my life talking about the colon—but here I am, approaching 50, more committed than ever to preventing colon cancer in innocent people.

Over 20 yrs, I found patients too late—when prevention was no longer an option. I'd find cancer, give the bad news, repeat again and again. The most common question from a patient "how did this happen?" The answer inside my head "if only you had been tested sooner!" Colon cancer doesn’t give second chances, yet it remains one of the most preventable cancers. A simple screening, a single conversation, could have saved so many people. As it stands, 1:23 people will have their lives devastated by this diagnosis.

Now, as I turn 50, I feel a shift. This is no longer just about medicine—it’s about bringing forth change. I want to get to people before this could happen to them. Instead of a personal celebration, I’m launching a colon cancer prevention initiative—raising funds to provide over 500 free take home cancer tests on March 19 for people who need to get screened. Whether through at-home test kits, community education, or outreach, I want this birthday to save lives and prevent suffering in so many affected. I know what needs to be done!

Fifty years is a milestone, but it’s just the beginning. This is my story, and I’m writing the next chapter with purpose. I hope you can support me!