Woman shares four warning signs that led to her colon cancer diagnosis

A 44-year-old mother of six is using her experience with colon cancer to raise awareness about the subtle but serious symptoms she noticed before her diagnosis.

When Elaine Griffin from New Jersey began feeling unwell, she didn’t immediately think it could be cancer. Like many people, she brushed off her symptoms, assuming they were tied to aging or food sensitivities. But what started as mild discomfort soon turned into something much more serious — and potentially deadly.

Elaine was diagnosed with Stage 2b colon cancer in April 2024. Thankfully, after treatment, she was declared cancer-free in September. Now, she’s speaking out to help others recognize early warning signs and get medical help before it’s too late.

1. Severe abdominal pain and changes in digestion

Elaine first began experiencing intense intestinal pain. At first, she thought it was her gluten allergy acting up. She kept a food journal and even changed her diet drastically, cutting out dairy, grains, and pasta. But the pain only got worse.

“It felt like glass going through my intestines,” she recalled.
“It was very hard to sit, stand, and use the bathroom. My abdomen was bloated.”

She also noticed blood in her stool and said her bowel movements became very narrow — and still didn’t bring relief.

2. Unexpected weight loss

One of the most alarming changes was how quickly Elaine began losing weight.

“I lost about 20 pounds in a month without trying,” she said.

Because eating became associated with pain, she naturally started eating less — but the rapid weight loss wasn’t healthy or intentional. This is often a red flag that something more serious is going on inside the body.

3. Extreme fatigue

Elaine had always been active and energetic, especially while raising six children. But even simple tasks started to feel exhausting.

“Climbing stairs, walking down a hallway — I started feeling worn out doing things that were never a problem before.”

Fatigue can be a common symptom of many illnesses, but when paired with other signs like digestive trouble or weight loss, it can point to cancer.

4. A failed colonoscopy — and a serious discovery

Elaine eventually went for a colonoscopy to get some answers. But doctors couldn’t even complete the test — a large tumor was blocking her colon.

Shortly after, she received the diagnosis: colon cancer.

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide — but it’s also one of the most treatable when caught early. Elaine’s story is a reminder that it’s important to listen to your body and speak up when something feels wrong.

The American Cancer Society recommends people at average risk begin regular screening for colon cancer at age 45. However, symptoms can appear earlier, especially in younger adults. That’s why it’s crucial to be aware of any unusual changes in your body, no matter your age.

A message of hope — and a call to action

Elaine is now cancer-free and feeling grateful. But she wants others to learn from her experience.

“I knew something was going on, but I thought it was just me getting older,” she said.
“If I had waited much longer, my outcome might have been very different.”

Her message is clear: Don’t ignore pain, fatigue, or other changes in your body. Early detection can save your life.

Colon cancer doesn’t always start with obvious symptoms. If you notice unexplained pain, weight loss, fatigue, or changes in your bowel movements, don’t delay — get checked. And if this story could help someone you love, share it.