Candace Tucker’s Story
Candace Tucker has spent years surrounded by cancer in her family. Her grandfather battled prostate cancer, her grandmother faced breast cancer, and her aunt dealt with pancreatic cancer. In her job at an oncology practice in her Texas town, Tucker interacted with cancer patients and doctors regularly.
When Tucker noticed unusual bowel movements and some bleeding in her stool in September 2025, she initially dismissed the symptoms. Her busy life included working and caring for her 7-year-old grandson. She attributed these changes to her new high-fiber diet.
After a few months of discomfort and sporadic bleeding, Tucker sought medical advice. A colonoscopy suggested cancer, later confirmed by pathology as Stage II rectal cancer.
Tucker’s immediate reaction was fear. “I was terrified,” she said. “Your mind goes to the worst possible scenario.” Despite her fear, she tried to remain strong for her family.
Embarking On Treatment
Tucker began treatment with Dr. Bradley Scott Colton, a gastrointestinal oncologist. He conducted tests to analyze her tumor’s DNA, revealing the need for chemotherapy, surgery, and potentially radiation.
At the time of the report, Tucker was one-third through her chemotherapy. She received treatment every two weeks. Dr. Colton planned additional tests to evaluate Tucker’s response to therapy.
“We are definitely trying to be as aggressive as we can be,” Colton said, noting Tucker’s positive response to treatment.
Tucker finds the chemotherapy manageable. She focuses on maintaining normalcy for her grandson. “I feel like it’s important to have normalcy,” she shared. “No matter how I feel, I make it to everything.”
Warning Signs of Colorectal Cancer
Dr. Colton emphasized the importance of recognizing colorectal cancer symptoms. Younger patients often overlook these signs. He advised seeking medical attention for any unexplained bowel changes.
“If symptoms last beyond a temporary period, see a GI doctor,” he urged. “Even if it’s not colorectal cancer, it might indicate another gastrointestinal issue.”
Dr. Megan Turley, a colon and rectal surgeon, stated that any rectal bleeding warrants serious consideration. “Rectal bleeding is not normal,” she said. Other symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, and stool color changes.
Dr. Arif Kamal of the American Cancer Society noted an increase in colorectal cancer cases and deaths in people aged 20 to 49. There is no definitive cause, but factors like diet, lifestyle, family history, and obesity might play roles.
Addressing Cancer Stigma
Tucker wants to reduce the stigma around colorectal cancer. Only after her diagnosis did her aunt disclose multiple family members with the same condition. “Maybe I would have been more cautious had I known,” she said.
Tucker shares her experience to inspire openness about this cancer. She hopes public figures raising awareness will highlight the disease’s impact.
Tucker looks forward to completing her treatment and achieving a cancer-free life. “I’m excited to move past this,” she remarked, hopeful for a healthier future.