A woman who initially dismissed her symptoms as minor issues ended up being diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer, reminding everyone not to ignore potential signs of serious health problems. Radwah Oda, 33 years old, had been in excellent health, maintaining a good diet and working out five times a week. Despite experiencing extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, and stomach problems, she attributed them to possible irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, as the symptoms persisted, including a specific pain on her right side under her breast, Radwah began to worry. She initially thought the discomfort might be due to an ill-fitting bra.
Radwah had explanations for many of her symptoms, like assuming dark blood in her stool was from a hernia, but she was unaware of the signs of colorectal cancer. Lack of health concerns and knowledge about the disease led her to overlook the seriousness of her situation. She admitted, “Whenever I experienced symptoms, I brushed them off as something minor. I didn’t make time for doctor’s appointments and hadn’t had an annual check-up in years.” Her casual approach changed in August 2021 when she visited the emergency room multiple times thinking it was just a stomach bug, experiencing vomiting and diarrhoea.
After undergoing a CT scan, the truth about her condition was revealed. Radwah remembered the moment vividly, “At that moment, when the doctor told me it was cancer, the room seemed to close in around me. I felt so small and vulnerable, completely overwhelmed by shock.” The diagnosis of cancer metastasis surprised her, as there were already over 20 tumours on her liver. Following her diagnosis, Radwah began chemotherapy, completing 12 rounds before having three surgeries – the first involving the removal of part of her colon and half of her liver in May 2022.
Further surgeries followed in December 2022 and February 2024, aiming to remove the remaining cancerous growths. Despite her efforts, a new chemotherapy treatment in pill form did not produce the desired outcomes, prompting her to join a clinical trial for an alternative treatment. Currently, Radwah is awaiting the results of CT scans to determine the effectiveness of the new approach. She has dedicated her time to raising awareness about colorectal cancer and urging others not to ignore potential symptoms like she did.
Radwah’s experience serves as a poignant reminder for everyone to prioritise their health and not overlook warning signs that could indicate a severe medical condition. Acknowledging the impact of the diagnosis on her life plans, she shared, “Being diagnosed with stage four cancer in my 30s was something I never expected. My future plans have had to shift to accommodate my health, and while cancer has taken over much of my life, I refuse to let it steal my happiness.”
Despite the challenges she faces, Radwah remains steadfast in her determination not to let cancer define her. She has embraced a positive outlook by creating a bucket list and striving to live life to the fullest amidst the ongoing treatment. Radwah encourages others to learn from her journey and take proactive steps towards their well-being. She stresses the importance of attending regular check-ups, speaking up about concerns, and advocating for oneself in medical situations.
Radwah’s story serves as a powerful narrative about resilience, hope, and the critical role of early detection in managing health issues effectively. It underlines the significance of being proactive about one’s health and not underestimating potential symptoms that could indicate a more serious underlying condition. By sharing her experience, Radwah highlights the importance of self-advocacy and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and timely interventions.