NOTES:

The special bond between the guys and their older friend Debi Sierra grows even more when she is faced with one of the biggest challenges of her life—a health crisis she never thought that would happen to her.

This story is based on actual events.

Though colorectal cancer is more common to those over 50, there have been cases of the illness in those of younger ages, though occurring less often. It is the fourth leading cause of death in males and the third leading cause in women.

When caught in the very early stages, the malignancies can be removed the same day as the procedure known as a colonoscopy is done. In many cases, however, polyps are not usually cancerous.

It is important to receive the proper medical tests on the first signs and symptoms of this disease; the sooner it is caught, the greater success of a complete cure.

Symptoms include (but all may not always be present):

A change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool for more than a couple of weeks

Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool

Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain

Abdominal pain with a bowel movement

A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely

Weakness or fatigue

Unexplained weight loss

If you notice any symptoms of the above, see your doctor as soon as possible. If you're at high risk (such as family history of cancer or over age 50), don't wait until symptoms appear. See your doctor for regular screenings. I'm certainly glad I did, or the outcome may have been a lot worse.