A 54-year-old woman from Lincoln, Nebraska, shares her colon cancer journey, highlighting the importance of early detection and screening.
Tiffany Mullison’s experience with colon cancer serves as a reminder that the disease can affect anyone. According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed form in the US. While it’s often treatable when detected early, delaying screenings can lead to severe consequences.
Mullison put off her first colonoscopy for nearly 10 years and didn’t get one until she was 54. Her experience was a wake-up call, as she discovered she had colon cancer at 54. Fortunately, a procedure in January 2024 detected the issue early on, but it also left her with emotional trauma.
Mullison credits Jill Geschke, an oncology nurse navigator at Bryan Health, for helping her navigate the complicated emotions and information that come with a diagnosis. Nurse navigators like Geschke provide crucial support during this challenging time.
Colon cancer is the second deadliest cancer in Nebraska, according to the Nebraska Cancer Coalition. The organization estimates 940 new diagnoses will be made across the state by 2025. This highlights the need for awareness and early detection. Mullison believes that people should prioritize their health and schedule colonoscopy screenings regularly.
“The stigma around discussing colon health is a major issue,” Mullison said. “If we’re open about it, we can reduce the risk of misdiagnosis.”
Source: https://www.1011now.com/2025/03/05/lincoln-woman-shares-colon-cancer-journey-urges-early-screening