Posted On: March 2, 2026 by Community HealthCare System in:
A Patient’s Story: “I Waited a Little Too Long”
A patient recently underwent a screening colonoscopy at CHCS and was diagnosed with colon cancer. She had the following comments to share with others:
“I encourage anyone to get their colonoscopy. I waited a little too long, but thankfully, it was still caught early enough that it doesn’t look like the cancer has spread or progressed. I am so grateful that Dr. Weiser was able to remove all of my cancer during the colonoscopy. Whether it is to catch cancer early or prevent it, I would strongly encourage everyone not to wait and just go get it done.”
During her colonoscopy, the patient had a cancer that the physician was able to completely excise endoscopically, it was removed completely during the colonoscopy using a procedure called Endoscopic Mucosal Resection. Thankfully, the margins were negative and the patient will not need surgery or any additional cancer treatment. A lifesaving outcome treated here in Onaga, all thanks to routine screening.
Why Colonoscopies Matter
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.—but it’s also one of the most preventable. Colonoscopies are unique among cancer screenings: not only can they detect cancer early, they can actually prevent cancer by removing polyps before they turn into something dangerous.
The Local Advantage: Care Close to Home
In big cities, it’s easy to feel like a number on a chart. Here in our rural health system, you’re a neighbor, a friend, and often a familiar face. Our providers take time to listen, explain, and ease nerves.
Patients who choose local care skip the stress of long drives, traffic, and crowded waiting rooms—and instead receive personalized, unhurried, high-quality care close to home.
What You Can Do
If you’re 45 or older, or have a family history of colon cancer, talk to your provider about scheduling your screening.
Colonoscopies are important because they save lives. As our patient put it: “Don’t wait. Just go get it done.”
0 comments