In Celebration of Survivor Moms

With Mother’s Day around the corner, we are humbled to share the stories of some of the incredible moms in our survivor community.

Too many women – mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, grandmothers – are being diagnosed with this disease, and not all stories end in survivorship. Colorectal cancer does not discriminate. It is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women. This year alone will witness approximately 70,000 newly diagnosed cases of colon and rectal cancers in women. And the number of these cases in both women and men under age 50 is growing.

Women who are in the prime years of motherhood are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a rate that is increasing every year. Through our Annual Early-Age Onset Colorectal Cancer Summit, we are working with the world’s leading researchers and physicians to combat this alarming trend. But there is so much more work to be done.

In anticipation of Mother’s Day this year, we hope you will read Gina’s inspiring story below and consider a donation – in honor of Gina or in honor or someone you know and love who has been affected by this terrible disease. Together we can ensure that Mother’s Day remains a happy holiday for generations to come.

Here is Gina’s story of how her battle with colon cancer has shifted her perspective on motherhood.

GINA NERI

Gina Neri, stage 3b colon cancer survivor and mother of three

Gina’s children: Aiden, Dylan, and Gianna Hope

I was diagnosed with Stage 3b colon cancer at the age of 39.  I was feeling great but bled rectally once and presented to my doctor to get checked out.  That week, I learned I was pregnant with my third child and that I had colon cancer.  It was the scariest week of my life.  The first thought that crossed my mind was if I die, my children will have to grow up without a mother.  It was devastating to think I wouldn’t be there for them and that they would be hurt and sad.   I didn’t think I could love my children any more, until I was diagnosed with colon cancer.  My love grew from the second I was diagnosed and every day during my battle.  The love I had for my children gave me strength to fight and to live another day.  I cherished my children before I was diagnosed with colon cancer, but my love and bond is so much greater now!