My father passed away in 1983 of what started as colon/rectal cancer. He was 43 years old. Knowing that having a family history meant higher risk, I’ve been proactive in screening.
I will share my first experience with a colon/rectal surgeon and hope you can chuckle.
At 34, I asked when should I start. My primary care doctor said now and referred me. I go to my appointment. I’m called back to a room. I see the examination table with it’s padded knee rests and the horror of what is about to happen hits home. They give me a sheet and say take off everything below the waist.
I half heartedly take the sheet as I stare at this table. I don’t even like to bend over fully clothed. The nurse points to a curtain and say I can change in there. The doctor will be with us shortly.
Not 30 seconds later he walks in. I’m still looking at the table. More so the knee rests. I’m uncomfortable so humor is my go to. I blurt out, I’m pretty sure I understand what I’m about to have to do. All I could do is laugh.
I’m directed to assume the position and I’m still laughing so hard I’m crying.
It suddenly got much worse. I didn’t understand the table was hydraulic. I’m strapped in and my hiney begins to elevate. I’m thinking, this can’t be real as I am trying to contain myself.
It got worse. The doctor put on a glove and dipped it in something slippery. As I’m coming to full realization of what he is about to do, he says, “You’ll feel a little discomfort.”
I am so far beyond discomfort. Once in, he says, “Squeeze my finger.”
I truly hope you get a laugh. #LynchSyndrome #MLH1