Jacksonville woman shares story about unexpected colon cancer diagnosis

Jacksonville, FL. — March is colon cancer awareness month, and a local woman wants people to know the importance of getting checked out.

In October of last year, Joan Green went to the doctor for pain while walking, and was surprised to learn she had colon cancer.

“I was shocked, I was really shocked,” Green said.

For a long time, Green didn’t have insurance; getting a colonoscopy wasn’t a high priority on her list.

“I found out I was 15 years late at getting the colon test,” Green explained.

Green had surgery to remove a harmful polyp, and while she was on the mend health-wise, her wallet took a hit.

“Those bills are not cheap.” Green started writing poems to offer comfort and inspiration to others going through tough times. “My poetry book is to encourage families as well, anybody who has been through a painful situation.”

At that point, she started selling her poetry books to help pay for her bills.

“If anybody needs real encouragement, this book will do that for you.” Green has written several books already -- inspiring others who are going through tough times.

She says she’ll never miss a screening again, and encourages others to do the same, as her outcome could’ve been much worse.

“It’s so important,” she said. “I’m thankful they found it early.”

According to cancer.org, colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States; it’s expected to kill almost 53,000 Americans this year.

Cox Media Group