When I started having low-back pressure and blood streaked stools, I did what any nurse would do; I donned a glove and checked myself. The mass in my lower colon was about the size of a golf ball, was pendulous, and seemed to be hanging by a thread. I refrained from yanking on it; although I must admit the temptation to immediately remove it was overwhelming.
My nurse practitioner referred me to a gastroenterology clinic. My first appointment was inconclusive, despite the humbling experience of bearing my bottom to the entire staff. Nobody could see or feel what I was talking about. Nevertheless, a colonoscopy screening was ordered because it was a procedure age-appropriate.
The gastroenterologist poked his head in and introduced himself minutes before my colonoscopy. I described in detail the mass that I had discovered. He patted me on the foot and said, “You don’t know if something is really there or not. We’ll find out shortly.”
I have to be feeling really rotten to go to the doctor. In past experiences, the doctor has taken a look at me and said, “Well you look OK.” One of these, “You look OK” responses ended up with three surgeons rushing me to the operating room with a short window of time of saving my life. Since this experience, I have taken on the responsibility to pay more attention to my body without becoming overly concerned to the point that I self-prophecy myself to every disease known to the free world.
So, at fifty, the doctor diagnosed me yesterday with a polyp that contained carcinoma in-situ. Carcinoma in-situ is another word for contained cancer. He’s going to perform another colonoscopy next week to ensure that the entire affected area is clear of any cancerous tissue.
Looking at yourself in the mirror and appearing to “look OK” is not a proper screening for a mammogram or a colonoscopy, just like having pretty white teeth doesn’t indicate cavities aren’t present inside the tooth. Examine your body, and listen to your soul and spirit. Do what you have to do to take care of yourself, and don’t be afraid to go poking around. After all, it’s your life.
