Testimonials about colorectal cancer

Portrait of Dan Brigas for the Let's Dethrone Colon Cancer campaign

“In 2017, I was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. I can now say that I’m a survivor. Had I known that there was a simple, effective and non-invasive screening test (FIT) that can help prevent this ... I don't understand why we don't talk about it more! I'm lucky to be here and to talk about it today; people shouldn’t take any chances with their health!”

Dan Bigras, Ambassador and Colorectal Cancer Survivor

Portrait of Dominique Michel for the Let's Dethrone Colon Cancer campaign

"Fatigue was my only symptom when I was suddenly diagnosed with colon cancer almost 13 years ago. But I didn't let this silent killer bring me down. I stayed positive and listened to the advice of specialists to emerge victorious. In recent years, I’ve become very involved in getting the word out and remain committed to talking about prevention."

Dominique Michel, Ambassador and Colorectal Cancer Survivor

Portrait of Alain Crête for the Let's Dethrone Colon Cancer campaign

"A few people in my family have battled colon cancer, so I’m thrilled about the FIT, a quick and non-invasive screening test that makes early detection a breeze. It’s important for people to stay vigilant and to take charge of their health."

Alain Crête, Ambassador

Portrait of Yves Dubé for the Let's Dethrone Colon Cancer campaign

"The at-home test is what saved my life. I was diagnosed with colon cancer when I was 50, even though I had no symptoms. Now I talk about the test to my loved ones all the time. I urge people over 50 to talk to their doctor about the FIT so they can keep enjoying life!"

Yves Dubé, Ambassador and Colorectal Cancer Survivor

Portrait of Ysabel Viau for the Let's Dethrone Colon Cancer campaign

"I learned that I had colon cancer in April 2019. Dealing with my diagnosis was tough at first, but I remained optimistic. I even got a tattoo of “I Got This” on my wrist as a reminder to stay positive.

A year later, they found another tumour on my lung. Because I was getting regular monitoring after my first bout with cancer, they were able to detect this new tumour early enough to successfully treat it. You could say that colon cancer saved my life! While I had cancer, I continued to work on growing my business. As a businesswoman and proud fighter, I’ve made it my mission to share my story at work in order to openly talk about cancer and remove the stigma associated with it."

Ysabel Viau, Ambassador and Colorectal Cancer Survivor

Portrait of Doctor Nicolas Benoit for the Let's Dethrone Colon Cancer campaign

“I come across people with colorectal cancer a whole lot, and my job allows me to help prevent it. Many of these cancers are preventable. This is why talking about prevention and the FIT screening is all the more important! People engage in magical thinking when they assume they won’t ever get sick, but cancer doesn't care about your race or your gender. The more we talk about it, the faster we can get through it, together.”

Dr Nicolas Benoit, Ambassador and Gastroenterologist

Portrait of Esther François for the Let's Dethrone Colon Cancer campaign

“Having worked in the GI surgical field for some time, I’ve attended to many colon cancer patients. Today, I find myself on the front lines in the emergency room and always encourage patients aged 50 to 74 to get regular testing. I know the flip side of the coin and prevention is the key! As a nurse, I feel it’s my duty to talk about early detection and to educate the people around me.”

Esther François,Nurse

For more information, contact the Canadian Cancer Society by email or by phone at 1 888 939-3333.