A Texas woman thought her new diet was causing digestive issues. Doctors found cancer: “I couldn’t believe it” Candace Tucker, who worked at an oncology practice and had a family history of cancer, initially dismissed her symptoms of bowel changes and blood in her stool as dietary issues. After a colonoscopy confirmed Stage II rectal cancer, she began an aggressive treatment plan involving chemotherapy and potential surgery. Tucker hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding colorectal cancer by sharing her experience, especially as diagnoses increase among younger adults.

• Candace Tucker was diagnosed with Stage II rectal cancer after initially attributing symptoms like unusual bowel movements and blood in her stool to dietary changes.
• Tucker has a family history of various cancers and works in an oncology practice, yet still overlooked her own warning signs.
• She is undergoing chemotherapy and may require surgery and radiation as part of an aggressive treatment plan.
• Doctors emphasize that persistent, unexplained bowel changes and rectal bleeding are not normal and should be evaluated promptly.
• Colorectal cancer diagnoses and deaths are increasing in individuals aged 20-49, making it the leading cancer-related cause of death for this age group.
• Tucker aims to reduce the stigma associated with colorectal cancer by sharing her story and highlighting the need for open conversations about the disease.