Comments on: A Daughter’s Story: Colon Cancer’s Impact on a Family

By: Marty Novak-Haynes

Marty Novak-Haynes — Sat, 25 Aug 2012 23:39:15 +0000

Catherine

You will probably never read this because your blog post is so old now. I worked for your dad at Jostens. I live in Colorado now and am visiting MN right now. I drove by the old Jostens building and it made me think of him. I did a google search to see what came up and found your blog. Your dad was one of the nicest, happiest people I knew on earth. He was so full of life and energy. I did not learn of his cancer until about 2 years ago. I was devastated. Thank you for your post. My friend Kelly was diagnosed with Colon Cancer and has completed 12 rounds of chemo. So far so good. She was 35 when diagnosed. Thanks for spreading the word about screening. And again, your dad was great and loved by so many. We will never ever forget him.

By: Family Member

Family Member — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 01:15:29 +0000

He was a great man

By: Linda

Linda — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 20:53:36 +0000

My husband was just diagnosed 10 days ago with Stage 4 colorectal cancer…and has spread to the liver. After the initial shock wore off, I got busy and am currently doing a ton of research. With the new treatments offered today, he is confident he will pull through. He had absolutely NO symptoms except for blood clots found throughout his body after just routine bloodwork.
The next few months will be difficult, I know, but with all the support, prayers and new treatments, I’m hopeful we will continue to have the happy life we have always had together.

By: Cindy Meyers

Cindy Meyers — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 18:50:34 +0000

Catherine-

I too lost a parent to colon cancer. My mother was diagnosed in 1994 and passed away in September of 1996. She had just turned 59 a month before she died. I was 32 at the time but my younger sister was only 19. It has been difficult over the years; my sisters and I have pulled together to support one another, but it has been hard. It has been especially sad to watch our children grow up without their wonderful grandmother. At the time of her diagnosis, we had barely heard of colonoscopy. Now, my older sister and I as well as my Mom’s brothers are routinely screened for this disease. When I hear of a friend or family member that has not been tested, I encourage them to get screened. It is so much better than the alternative!! My heart goes out to you!!!

By: Stephanie Linhart

Stephanie Linhart — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:57:51 +0000

Catherine –
I’m so sorry for your loss. Your dad seemed to be an awesome person. I have chills reading your story because I too was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 30 due to a genetic syndrome called Lynch syndrome or HNPCC. The tell tale signs of this syndrome are colon cancer at young ages (under 50) and uterine cancer. People with Lynch syndrome are 80% likely to develop colon cancer and 60% likely to develop uterine cancer in their lifetimes. A simple blood test can tell you if you have the gene. I was fortunate that my colon cancer was caught early (colonscopies are a life saver!). I urge you and your relatives to get tested for Lynch syndrome. There is not enough awareness of this syndrome and it sneaks up because no one expects to get colon cancer when they are young – it is always thought of as the “old person’s cancer”. Take care and may the memories of your father give you and your family peace and comfort!

By: JoAnna Smith

JoAnna Smith — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 03:33:30 +0000

Cato– Your story is a gift. Luke will always be remembered through you and your whole family. I loved him so much as I know so many others did! His story and your family’s strength will always be an inspiration. Love you all!

By: Delphine Broccard

Delphine Broccard — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 01:16:40 +0000

Catherine,

Thank you for sharing your story and inspire others to be safe and have healthy life outlooks. Your father lives on in his beautiful daughter! Miss you.

By: Dede Zimmerman

Dede Zimmerman — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 23:14:29 +0000

Catherine: Your dad was the best! Always set the bar high for good living and love of family. The way Luke lived, his illness, and passing has changed so many lives. Thanks for the message.