In her final months, Krystal used her remaining strength to speak openly about her experience. She wanted others to know how quickly things can change — and how vital early detection is.
“I ignored the pain because I thought I was too young and too healthy,” she said. “Please, don’t do the same. Listen to your body. Don’t wait.”
Bowel Cancer: What to Watch For
While bowel cancer is often associated with older adults, doctors are seeing a concerning rise in younger, health-conscious individuals being diagnosed — people who exercise, eat well, and don’t fit the “typical” risk profile.
According to the NHS, common symptoms of bowel cancer can include:
- Ongoing changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum
- A constant feeling of needing to pass stool, even after going to the toilet
- Persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping
- A noticeable lump or swelling in the abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or low energy for no clear reason
While these symptoms can sometimes have less serious causes, health experts stress the importance of getting them checked early. Delaying medical attention can make all the difference in treatment outcomes.
Why Early Detection Matters
Bowel cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when caught in its early stages. However, once it spreads beyond the bowel, treatment becomes much more difficult.
Doctors urge people — regardless of age — not to dismiss ongoing discomfort or changes in their health as “nothing serious.” Whether it’s fatigue, unusual pain, or subtle digestive changes, it’s always better to get tested and have peace of mind.
Krystal’s story serves as a heartbreaking but powerful reminder that good health on the outside doesn’t always mean good health within.
A Legacy of Awareness
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