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Article Category: Highlights

What to Know When You Are Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer

Published on March 14, 2024

Last updated 09:05 AM March 26, 2025

Like the man in this image, it's normal to be too shocked to ask questions when diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Get answers from experts here.

More young adults—people in their 30s and 40s—are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. 

“I was in absolute shock,” said Samantha McInturff, a mother of two school-age children when she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at 48. “I was stunned. I probably didn’t ask enough questions.”

Like Samantha, patients don’t always think to ask questions on the spot. But questions come up once they’ve had a little time to process the news. That’s why we brought together a panel of gastrointestinal health experts and a colon cancer survivor to answer the questions you may have here. 

 
 Image of colorectal cancer experts and patients including Samantha McInturff, colon cancer survivor; Nancy Page, Wellstar oncology nurse navigator; Dr. Sahir Shroff, Wellstar surgical oncologist; and Dr. Shani Clay, Wellstar gastroenterologist.

Colorectal cancer staging

What stage is my cancer and how will that affect my treatment plan?

Dr. Sahir Shroff, surgical oncologist: The staging of the cancer is a way to evaluate if the cancer is localized or if it has spread. It involves multiple imaging studies and blood tests. 

For colon cancer, we mostly use CT scans of the chest, abdomen and pelvis with contrast. Sometimes we do a PET scan. CT scan results typically are in within a week of having the scan. For rectal cancer, the staging is a little more involved. We also do an MRI of the rectum itself to delineate the exact location and relationship of the tumor with related structures in the pelvis. Clear identification really helps us evaluate the best treatment for each patient. 

The other part of staging is looking for a tumor biomarker called carcinoembryonic antigen—or CEA—a protein in the blood. Patients excrete excess amounts of CEA if they have colorectal cancer. Checking the CEA throughout treatment is a benchmark to see if the treatments are working. We typically have bloodwork results within a few hours.

If a patient has surgery, we send tissue removed during the operation to be analyzed and tell us a more accurate stage to determine the next phase of treatment. 

Colorectal cancer treatment

What are my treatment options? 

Dr. Shroff: Treatment of colorectal cancer is an evolving field. There have been so many changes around the most effective combinations of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, cancer surgery and radiation oncology. Recently, a non-operative treatment option has become available for patients with an excellent response to chemotherapy.

At Wellstar, we give patients access to the most comprehensive care for colorectal cancer, which includes genetic testing, clinical trials and the highest level of complex surgical procedures. Our specialists work collaboratively and follow the latest evidence-based practices. Everything we do is geared toward giving patients the most personalized care.

The types of treatment and the order of the different treatments vary depending on the type of cancer—rectal cancer or colon cancer—and personal factors such as the stage and location of the cancer. 

Dr. Shani Clay, gastroenterologist: Patients can bring their family members in to accompany them at the time of their visits so that everyone has a good understanding of the treatment plan. 

Nancy Page, RN, oncology nurse navigator: We have national accreditation for rectal cancer, which is huge for patients. Through our rectal tumor board, they’re getting expert, evidence-based care for rectal cancer and state-of-the-art treatments.

Dr. Shroff: Yes, the NAPRC accreditation is excellent—it’s changed how we manage rectal cancer. Every patient is reviewed by a multidisciplinary team regardless of the stage. Decisions are made about treatment by a team of experts.

Listen to your doctor and ask a lot of questions. There are no bad questions. Lean on your support system of friends and family. In the beginning, it’s a scary process as you’re going through treatment and you have new symptoms. If you’re the type to blame yourself, don’t. When I was diagnosed, I thought, “What did I do to cause this?” I now know cancer can happen to anybody.

- Samantha McInturff

Colorectal cancer survivor

How long will I stay in the hospital after surgery?

Dr. Shroff: A patient with colon cancer that has not spread will typically have an operation to remove the cancer. The colon is removed, the cancerous portion is taken out and then the colon is reconnected. The patient will spend around three days in the hospital and three weeks recovering before they get back to their regular activities.

Patients who have surgery for rectal cancer typically spend three to five days in the hospital, and recovery is approximately four weeks.

How long will I go through cancer treatment?

Dr. Shroff: Depending on the regimen used, chemotherapy could last three to six months. And someone who is a candidate for non-operative treatment will need close monitoring for three years, the time when the cancer is most likely to come back.

For some patients, there is an additional layer of treatment called radiation therapy. Radiation could shrink the tumor and reduce the risk of it coming back. Usually, the radiation treatment for rectal cancer is Monday through Friday for just over five weeks.

Nancy: Usually, the time of cancer treatment for rectal cancer is, give or take, around nine months. Each patient is evaluated by the NAPRC multidisciplinary team and a precise plan of care is given for each patient based on their tumor size and other factors. It’s not a cookie-cutter plan, but based on the individual needs of the patient. 

What can I eat?

Nancy: When patients are initially being treated for rectal cancer with chemoradiation, we want them to be on a low-residue diet and then again after their surgery. The low residue diet makes it easier for the patient to digest the food and then be able to pass the stool with less discomfort or pain. The diet limits high-fiber foods, like whole-grain breads and cereals, nuts, seeds, raw or dried fruits and vegetables.

We generally recommend a balanced diet. Proteins like chicken and turkey. Fresh fruits, vegetables, soups, pudding and protein shakes. Because of chemotherapy side effects, some people get a bad taste in their mouth, so they don’t like to eat. We don’t want you to lose weight, so if it comes down to it, eat what you can eat! People say cancer feeds off sugar—that’s the biggest myth there ever was. If you can’t get anything down except a bowl of ice cream, go for it.

Hydration—drinking 64 oz. of water per day—is so important while you’re on chemo. Caffeine needs to be limited, and herbal tea is typically fine, but it should be cleared with your medical oncologist.

What can I do to have the best outcomes?

Samantha: Listen to your doctor and ask a lot of questions. There are no bad questions. Lean on your support system of friends and family. In the beginning, it’s a scary process as you’re going through treatment and you have new symptoms. 

If you’re the type to blame yourself, don’t. When I was diagnosed, I thought, “What did I do to cause this?” I now know cancer can happen to anybody. Cancer does not discriminate. 

My sons did well because they had watched my sister walk through cancer treatment and she was okay, so they believed I would be okay. We tried to keep things more positive for them. 

Dr. Clay: It is important, regardless of the treatment plan selected, for patients and families to maintain a positive attitude while going through the journey. Cancer treatment can be difficult and stressful, and a positive attitude can help patients have a better quality of life throughout treatment.

Nancy: So many things are coming into play and your life is changing. Just remember it’s not the rest of your life. It’s temporary. For a while, your life is going to be different. You’re going to be going to doctors more than ever before. It’s mentally taxing. I love the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. They have wonderful information and online support groups for patients, caregivers and family members. That’s really huge.

Should I limit my activity so I get more rest?

Nancy: Get the proper amount of rest, but you should also exercise. You need to be up and mobile to avoid muscle waste and blood clots or pneumonia. Walk at least 30 minutes a day. If you’re home and sedentary, walk at least 10 minutes a day. 

I’m overwhelmed. What do I say to family and friends when they offer to help?

Samantha: Psychologically, it’s quite a blow when you’re diagnosed. Everyone’s different in how they want to communicate their cancer to others and that’s okay. Some people want to be quiet. Some people want to tell the world. I went public because one, I believe in the power of prayer, and two, it’s important to be screened and I wanted to spread the word.

Accept help when it’s offered. It felt fragile at first but now I’m an old pro! As to what family and friends can do, ask them to be there to listen and provide comfort. To provide meals or give cards. I remember when the men in our small group from church came and got our yard ready for the season. Our small group also came and prayed for me. Allow people to be there, rally and support you and help you stay positive and hopeful. 

Nancy: Stop depending on yourself to do everything. You must depend on your network. Lean on family and friends so you have someone to talk to, to help with food and rides. I worked with a single man who had no family locally and didn’t know who would help him. Once he shared his diagnosis with his colleagues, he learned he had a safety net of people who loved him. They set up a meal train and transportation. And his sister came in from out of town to support him for several weeks. It was a huge lift to his heart, and he was filled with gratitude.

Life after colorectal cancer

Can I get cancer again?

Nancy: Unfortunately, cancer can come back. After treatment, it’s important to continue to follow up with your doctors as directed for what is called surveillance. That’s where you go back to your medical oncologist every three months for a year and it tapers down over time. They draw blood and do imaging to make sure everything’s fine. If the cancer does come back, it can be caught earlier through surveillance and treatment can start faster.

Will my bathroom habits change?

Dr. Shroff: Some patients may have a higher frequency of bowel movements after rectal cancer surgery, but that doesn’t happen to everybody. 

Do I need to change things about my lifestyle, like what I eat and which vitamins I take? 

Dr. Shroff: You’ll have to change your diet before surgery, such as adding amino acid shakes. You’ll continue that for a little while after surgery because it helps the body to heal better. Once recovered and on a regular diet, you’ll have no restrictions. You can get back to exercising and a normal diet that is rich in fiber and low in red meat. 

Dr. Clay: Patients should eat healthy diets that are high in fiber and low in red meat, if not already doing so, and should quit any tobacco use. Unfortunately, there is no specific vitamin or supplement that has been shown to cure colon cancer, despite what may be out there on social media channels. Following your doctor’s advice is key.

Face cancer with confidence
At Wellstar, people with colon cancer have highly coordinated and collaborative care—close to home. Our multidisciplinary team offers the most advanced diagnostics, treatments and clinical trials. If you’re looking for a cancer expert at Wellstar or need a second opinion, call 1 (877) 366-6032 or find a colorectal cancer specialist near you.


Encourage someone you love to get screened
Wellstar offers colorectal cancer screening to save lives. When physicians find pre-cancerous polyps during a colonoscopy, it prevents cancer from developing. Learn more about screening for colorectal cancer or schedule a screening.

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Dr. Nasarachi Onyeuku, a radiation oncologist at Wellstar, standing with one of the two TrueBeam linear accelerators in use for cancer care at Wellstar Cobb Cancer Center

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Wellstar Cobb Cancer Center Expands Treatment Services

New radiation technology and refreshed waiting and treatment areas are expanding world-class cancer treatment at Wellstar Cobb Cancer Center.

Cancer care in forward motion

Wellstar Cobb Cancer Center recently installed its second TrueBeam linear accelerator, which treats various cancers, including brain, head and neck, prostate, breast, lung, skin and gastrointestinal tumors. With the linear accelerator, clinicians can adjust the size and shape of beams to a tumor’s shape and spare healthy tissue.

With the second linear accelerator, Wellstar Cobb can offer patients more flexible and convenient scheduling. “An additional linear accelerator can lead to timely treatment starts and shorter wait times,” said Dr. Nasarachi Onyeuku, a radiation oncologist at Wellstar. “It expands our ability to treat more patients with cutting-edge care, continuing our commitment to bringing world-class cancer treatment closer to home.”

In addition to state-of-the-art external beam radiotherapy, TrueBeam delivers precise, high-dose stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) targeting tumors in the body. It also provides stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain or spine cancer treatment. Patients will typically receive one to five treatments.

Patient-centered care at Wellstar Cobb

Wellstar Cobb Cancer Center recently renovated its treatment areas, front desk and waiting room, making it more welcoming and comforting for patients and their families. Within the treatment areas, the suite where patients receive high-dose radiation brachytherapy, a targeted treatment that involves placing radioactive material directly into tumors or near them, also underwent renovations.

“The beautifully designed space enhances patient comfort, offering a calm, supportive environment,” Dr. Onyeuku said. “We’re currently treating breast, cervical, uterine and skin cancers, with plans to expand to other cancer types. It’s advanced, efficient care—delivered close to home and with compassion.”

Early detection and support services

Cancer care begins with prevention and early detection. Wellstar Cobb is home to a lung cancer STAT Clinic, where specialists collaborate to diagnose and begin treatment within as little as 14 days. According to research by the Cleveland Clinic, patients can spend up to eight weeks on average visiting different specialists before starting a treatment plan. Earlier treatment can lead to the best possible outcomes.

Patients at Wellstar Cobb receive support at every stage of their treatment. These services include:

  • Emotional support from a social worker
  • Lymphedema therapy for patients with excess fluid and swelling
  • Meal planning with a dietitian
  • Monthly support group
  • Pain management
  • Physical therapy
  • Transportation assistance

“We have a superb team and state-of-the-art treatment here at Wellstar Cobb Cancer Center. And we’re backed by the resources of a nationally recognized health system,” Dr. Onyeuku said. “We are thrilled that our technology enhancements allow us to serve more people with exceptional cancer treatment.”

Learn more about cancer care in Cobb.

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A healthcare provider checks the lungs of her patient using a stethoscope. Reads "PhyllisCare".

PeopleCare

PhyllisCare

For Phyllis Burgess, staying on top of her health made all the difference. When lung cancer showed up on a routine screening, she was ready—and so was her Wellstar care team.

Friendly photo of Phyllis Burgess


Proactive primary care

When Phyllis retired after nearly 50 years as a bookkeeper, she looked forward to a slower pace and more time for herself. A breast cancer survivor and former smoker, she also wanted to be proactive about her health.

Encouraged by her Wellstar primary care physician, Dr. David Gose, Phyllis committed to regular lung cancer screening at Wellstar Paulding Medical Center —staying one step ahead of a disease that usually goes unnoticed until it's too late. Wellstar’s lung cancer screening program is a national leader in early detection, offering low-dose CT scans that help detect early-stage lung cancer before clinical signs or symptoms become evident.

Her first three CT scans came back clear. But on her fourth screening, doctors spotted something suspicious.

Quick answers with the STAT Clinic

Phyllis was quickly referred to the Wellstar Specialty Teams and Treatments (STAT) Clinic for Lung Cancer at Wellstar Paulding. The program quickly moves patients through screening to diagnosis and treatment with a multidisciplinary team of experts. Patients with lung and other chest cancers meet with multiple specialists in one place, often on the same day, to reduce delays and improve outcomes.

"Most of the time you don’t get two or three or four or five people on your case from the get-go,” said Phyllis. "But knowing that I had this group of qualified professionals looking at my tests, discussing what we need to do, how best to do it, when to do it—it’s very comforting."

At the Wellstar STAT Clinic, Phyllis’ care team included a thoracic surgeon, medical and radiation oncologists, pulmonologist and nurse navigators, who bring a highly personalized level of guidance and support to each patient and their family members.

"The support staff was just fabulous,” Phyllis said. "They’re like best friends. They’re there for you."

Behind the scenes, her care team was already working in sync to coordinate fast care.

“We plan patients’ appointments ahead of time, ordering multiple tests that will be necessary for the treatment decision-making. These can include PET scans, CT scans, MRIs and/or a pulmonary function test,” said Dr. Daniel Fortes, Wellstar chief of thoracic surgery. "We’re always gaining time in the patient’s overall treatment because we are anticipating and creating a plan as a team."

Dr. Fortes emphasized that timing matters when treating lung cancer. "We have data to show that if we delay treatment, even in early-stage cancers, we do decrease the chance of a cure,” he said. “The goal of the STAT Clinic is to get them the quickest we can into their final treatment plan."

Expert diagnosis and advanced surgery

To diagnose her cancer, Phyllis underwent a robotic bronchoscopy at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center. The advanced procedure allowed the pulmonary team to examine her lungs and collect tissue samples.

The biopsy confirmed lung cancer. Having already caught one cancer early, Phyllis was grateful she had remained vigilant—keeping up with annual screenings and following through on care every step of the way.

"I am sort of a walking advertisement for early detection," she said. "My mammogram showed up with stage zero breast cancer. And I think they described the lung cancer as 1.1—very early, no metastasis. I’ve been very fortunate. These processes that are there for people to take advantage of saved my life.”

Phyllis returned to the STAT Clinic, where the same team who had evaluated her case before came together again to review her results and finalize her treatment plan.

"Every single patient who comes through our clinic is discussed collaboratively by a group of lung cancer specialists so we can make a fast, informed decision as a team," Dr. Fortes explained. "Because Phyllis had good overall health and an early-stage diagnosis, she was an excellent candidate for surgery.”

Soon after, Phyllis had a lobectomy at Wellstar Kennestone. Dr. Fortes performed the robotic-assisted surgery using the  da Vinci Surgical System to remove the affected part of her lung.

"They told me what they would do, what kind of incisions they’d be making and what I could expect in the way of healing," Phyllis said. “So, I went in feeling like this is not some strange, scary process.”

Dr. Fortes noted that complex cancer surgeries are best performed at major centers like Wellstar Kennestone. "Complex cancer care demands a comprehensive structure of care around the patient that includes more than just physicians and technology," he explained. "At the same time, we are continuing to expand our STAT Clinics to bring them closer to people's homes and with the aim of improving access for patients.”

Ongoing care, close to home

Phyllis’ lung cancer surgery took place the day before a snowstorm was forecasted to hit the metro Atlanta area. However, thanks to Dr. Fortes’ minimally invasive techniques—which resulted in less pain, less scarring and less blood loss—she was able to be discharged from the hospital that evening and avoid being stuck at the hospital for several days due to poor road conditions.

Phyllis described her recovery as “easy” and now feels great. She continues her follow-up care for both lung and breast cancer at the Wellstar Women’s Imaging Services at Wellstar Paulding, close to home.

“Wellstar Paulding feels like home, even when I’m dealing with someone who I haven’t met before,” she shared. “Whether it’s the receptionist or the admissions nurse—they’re always very, very friendly and helpful. There’s a family feel to it."

Hope, health and staying vigilant

As she settles into retirement, Phyllis is sharing her story to encourage others to set aside any fear or guilt and talk to their healthcare provider about lung cancer screening.

"Cancers are so insidious. You’re not going to just go, 'Gee, I don’t feel good; it must be cancer,'" she said. "There’s no big warning signs until it’s serious. Early detection is absolutely our best weapon. It’s our best defense.”

Dr. Fortes echoed the importance of early detection. "We can only cure lung cancers if we pick them up in an early stage. That’s why lung cancer is the No. 1 cancer killer in the world,” he said. “The only way we can change that is by diagnosing early. And then they are truly curable.”

Phyllis is thankful for Wellstar’s STAT Clinics that are designed to move quickly when it matters most.

Her advice to others considering treatment at a STAT Clinic? "Please do it. It’s the difference between life and death,” she urged. “At the same time, it’s in an environment where you don’t feel like you’re a sample in a petri dish. These are people, and they’re warm, and they care."

Learn more about who is eligible for lung cancer screening, find a location near you or schedule your lung cancer screening at Wellstar.

Learn more about STAT Clinics at Wellstar.

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Illustration of baseball with ribbon and bats. Text reads "Strike out cancer"

Highlights

Commemorate Cancer Survivors Day with Wellstar

Wellstar supports people with cancer throughout their journeys, from early screenings to diagnosis to treatment. But our encouragement and dedication to delivering world-class, compassionate care doesn’t end in remission.

Across our system, Wellstar honors the bravery and strength of survivors every day, rejoicing in each milestone. This National Cancer Survivors Day, June 1, 2025, we are proud to pay tribute to the people who have conquered cancer and offer hope to those still fighting. This year’s Cancer Survivors Day theme—Strike Out Cancer—exemplifies our commitment to being a steadfast source of encouragement for cancer survivors and fighters across Georgia.

“On Cancer Survivors Day, we reflect on our patients’ journeys and cherish victories over cancer. We also offer compassion and support for people currently fighting cancer, so they and their loved ones know they’re not alone,” said Wellstar Director of Oncology Professional Practices Melissa Higdon.

Several Wellstar facilities will host events—and you can be a part of the celebration!

 

Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers in Cartersville
June 5, 2025
10 AM to 3 PM
100 Market Place Blvd., Cartersville
Contact Mary Ellen Smither at [email protected] or (678) 858-1146.

Wellstar Cobb Medical Center
May 30, 2025
12 to 2 PM     
4040 Hospital West Drive, Austell
Behind the building in the garden and parking lot area
Contact Ashley Dapremont at [email protected] or (470) 732-4523.

Wellstar Douglas Medical Center
June 7, 2025
11 AM to 2 PM
8954 Hospital Drive, Douglasville
Surgical services lobby
Contact Diane Harris at [email protected] or (470) 644-5411.

Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center
June 7, 2025
11 AM to 2 PM
320 Kennestone Hospital Blvd., Marietta
First floor
Required RSVP, contact Nancy Page at [email protected] or (470) 793-7470.

Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center
June 1, 2025
2 to 4 PM
3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell
Main lobby in hospital
Contact Sarah Bentley at [email protected] or (770) 751-2556.

Wellstar Paulding Medical Center
June 1, 2025
144 Bill Carruth Parkway, Hiram
Second floor auditorium
Contact Kellie Mitchell at [email protected] or (470) 644-8106.

Wellstar Spalding Medical Center
May 28, 2025
12 to 2 PM
Drive-thru event
608 South 8th St., Griffin
Women’s Center
Contact Sherry Connell at [email protected] or (470) 935-5526.

Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center
June 6, 2025
10 AM to 12 PM
111 Medical Drive, LaGrange
Enoch Callaway Cancer Center
Contact Stephanie Hand at [email protected].

Learn more about cancer care at Wellstar.

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