Meet Nicole Smith, a Colon Cancer “Thriver”. Diagnosed with an advanced Stage 3B of the disease at age 27, Nicole underwent surgery to remove the cancerous material, then 6 months of chemo therapy to eradicate any remaining diseased cells. Was the treatment successful? Well, Nicole successfully ran the 26+ mile Chicago Marathon only 6 months after completing treatment, so that’s definitely a “Yes”. Not to mention her recent engagement to be married!
Colorectal cancer has become the second leading cause of cancer death among women under 50 years of age. Young people are more susceptible to death because of failure to detect the disease at an early stage. In Nicole’s case, persistent stomach pain, bloody stool, and inability to digest food normally led her to schedule a colonoscopy with a gastroenterologist in the Boston area, then to surgery shortly thereafter. No one would have expected the need for a colonoscopy at such an early age…but for the symptoms Nicole was experiencing. Early screening led to discovery of the advanced disease while it could still be successfully treated and eliminated.
Sure, Nicole’s journey through this disease disrupted her life for a short time, while keeping the important parts intact. Her family was super supportive, she retained her job as media specialist at Factory Five Racing, and importantly maintained her physical fitness regimen even during the six months of chemo treatment after surgery. Nicole told me the chemo was administered every other week, and immediately after each treatment she felt 10 times worse than any hangover ever! Regardless, she maintained her physical fitness by distance running during the alternate weeks between chemo.
Support by family and friends is critical for anyone dealing with a serious disease. Nicole is closely involved with a tight-knit community of auto enthusiasts through her work at Factory Five Racing. That relationship is best expressed in her own words, set out below:
“The journey through the challenges of stage 3 colon cancer has been an arduous one, yet I find myself profoundly grateful for the incredible support and strength that the Factory Five Racing (FFR) community has brought into my life. The journey has been more bearable, and even hopeful, thanks to the unwavering support of a community that stands by its members through thick and thin.
“In the face of adversity, the FFR community has been my pillar of strength, offering support and genuine care. So many people in this incredible community have said prayers for me with their families and friends —which I am completely unaware of until speaking with them at car events. The difference Factory Five has made in my battle against colon cancer is immeasurable, and I am truly fortunate to have never fought these battles alone.
“Expressing my gratitude feels like an impossible task because there are not enough words to convey the appreciation I hold for everyone who has played a part in the fight against colon cancer. Your contributions, big and small, help to shape a positive future for those battling this illness.
“To the FFR community, my family, and friends, I extend my deepest thanks. Your love, support, and generosity have had a beautiful impact on my journey with colon cancer. Though the challenges persist, I am living a life filled with joy, and continually triumphing over the obstacles that this disease throws my way—all made possible because of you. Thank you for being the driving force behind these victories, and for helping shape a promising future for me filled with hope! A big part of my heart goes out to the amazing people and their AWESOME Factory Five cars!”
Well said, Nicole. Congratulations on your successful recovery of your health, your support of the Colorectal Cancer community, and perhaps most important your recent engagement to be married!
Please donate through our website www.C3on66.org to help discover a cure for this disease, and to help educate others on the need for earlier screening. More information and assistance for Colorectal Cancer education, screening, testing, surgery and recovery is available at https://colorectalcancer.or
