Recent Research Findings

Recent research from Memorial University has unveiled a shocking reality: Newfoundland and Labrador has the highest rates of colon cancer in the world. This year alone, it is predicted that 640 individuals from the province will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, with a harrowing 280 expected to succumb to the disease.

Survival Rates and Personal Story

With only a 12 to 14 percent chance of surviving to the five-year mark, these statistics paint a grim picture. Among the fortunate is Tracey Slaney of Southern Harbour, whose husband's battle with cancer has transformed their lives into a constant struggle. "Our life, for the past four-and-a-half years, has revolved around cancer," she shares. "We've endured 150 rounds of chemo. I can’t even express how financially drained we are, but I celebrate every day because my children still have their dad, and I still have my husband."

The Diagnosis

The diagnosis came suddenly. In February 2020, Jim Slaney began experiencing severe abdominal pain and rapid weight loss. Just a month earlier, he had been working on home improvement projects. Tracey recalls, “It just intensified and intensified. We received multiple misdiagnoses before we learned the truth.”

Emergency Room Visit and Critical Surgery

In March, his condition worsened, leading to an emergency room visit where doctors revealed a complete bowel blockage. After a critical surgery and five days in the ICU, relief was temporarily at hand. But in April, their world shattered when they learned that Jim hadn’t just experienced an obstruction; he had stage four colorectal cancer.

Explaining the Situation to Children

The heartbreaking moment came when Tracey had to explain the grim reality to their children, who were only 8 and 16 at the time. Their innocent question, “Will Dad be OK?" cut deeply as she realized she couldn’t make any promises.

Financial Burden and Employment

The financial burden was immediate. Both working for the Department of Fisheries, Jim had to stop working, and Tracey had to reduce her hours to care for him. "I exhausted all my leaves and benefits, and it came down to a financial crunch,” she explained. "I had to return to work, which was incredibly challenging emotionally."

Challenges During the Pandemic

Navigating cancer treatment during the pandemic added another layer of difficulty. Due to public health restrictions, Jim had to undergo his first 50 chemotherapy treatments alone. “I would sit and wait in the parking lot of the Health Sciences Center, crying," she admits. "I had to be strong for the kids and for him."

Looking Ahead and Advocacy

Despite these challenges, Jim’s condition began to improve. As he approaches the five-year mark of his diagnosis this April, the Slaney family reflects on their journey. While life might not return to normal, every milestone is cherished. Motivated by their ordeal, Tracey has turned to advocacy, pushing for early cancer screenings and awareness. "Advocacy gave me my voice back," she said. "If I can help one person get tested and save one family from this nightmare, it will all be worth it.”

Public Health Challenge

As highlighted by Sevtap Savas, a professor of oncology at Memorial University, Newfoundland and Labrador faces a significant public health challenge. The incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer are the highest in Canada, attributed to a mix of genetic factors and lifestyle choices. Savas emphasizes the critical need for awareness campaigns focused on early detection. “Catching cancer early dramatically improves the chances of survival,” she asserts.

Conclusion

This tragic yet hopeful narrative serves as a call to action: early detection of colorectal cancer could save lives. As the Slaney family continues their fight, awareness and advocacy may inspire change and foster hope for countless others grappling with similar battles.