HEBER CITY, UTAH — Brinlee and Mariela Luster are not only identical twins but an inseparable duo who have navigated life's milestones side by side — from college to matrimony.

Their bond, however, faced an unforeseen test when Brinlee received a shocking cancer diagnosis that no one, let alone someone so young, could ever expect.

A Life-Altering Diagnosis

At the young age of 21, Brinlee began to experience alarming symptoms that would soon change her life forever. "I had severe abdominal cramping and was often breathless," she recalled. Fatigue weighed heavily on her, but doctors initially dismissed her symptoms as mere stressors tied to her wedding planning or possibly the side effects of her birth control.

Deteriorating Health

Despite these reassurances, Brinlee's condition deteriorated. In desperation, she underwent a colonoscopy that served as a turning point in her life. The results were devastating: Brinlee was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer, a shocking revelation that forced her to confront a future she had never anticipated.

The Emotional Toll of Cancer

"No one can truly prepare for the moment when you're told you have cancer," Brinlee shared. Over the next few years, she faced an uphill battle involving 30 rounds of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, all while witnessing her peers build their futures and move forward, a struggle that weighed heavily on her spirit.

The Rising Trend of Colon Cancer in Young Adults

A concerning trend has emerged: the American Cancer Society notes a staggering 9% increase in colon cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50 since 2020. Dr. Mark Lewis, a cancer survivor and director of gastrointestinal oncology at Intermountain Health, emphasized, "There really is no such thing as too young for colon cancer." He highlights that approximately 1 in 7 of his patients with colon cancer are under the age of 45. This surge can be attributed to a combination of lifestyle choices, genetics, and even the use of medication, particularly antibiotics that can disrupt gut health.

Symptoms and Early Detection

The symptoms of colorectal cancer, including persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, and the presence of blood in stool, may be easily dismissed. Dr. Lewis encourages open communication with healthcare providers regarding gut health to enhance early detection of colon cancer: "If you talk to your doctor about your gut health, we can certainly improve our chances of finding colon cancer sooner."

Brinlee's Journey to Remission

After enduring her arduous journey, Brinlee completed her final round of chemotherapy in December and is currently in remission. Inspired by her experience, Mariela took the brave step of having a colonoscopy and successfully had polyps removed, drawing a line of defense against her own potential risks. "I truly believe she saved my life," Mariela remarked.

Creating a Positive Impact

In a remarkable testament to resilience, the twins launched "The Port Studio," a clothing line offering stylish yet comfortable sweatshirts designed with IV access for those undergoing chemotherapy. They also co-founded a podcast titled "Live Today," providing a platform for sharing stories of strength and hope.

A Message of Hope

"Creating this together has been incredibly healing for us," Mariela stated. Brinlee echoed the sentiment, declaring, "I refuse to hide my cancer story. Sharing it may be uncomfortable, but I aim to inspire others. There's always room for hope."

Conclusion

In a world where health awareness is vital, Brinlee and Mariela's narrative stands as a poignant reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies and advocating for our health. Don’t ignore the signs — it could save your life or the life of someone you love.