Advocating for Your Health: How One Woman’s Persistence Led to a Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis
Sydney Stoner in the hospital for stage 4 bowel cancer. Photo: Kennedy News & Media
When Sydney Stoner began experiencing persistent digestive pain and abnormal bowel symptoms at 27, she knew something wasn’t right. Despite visiting multiple doctors, she was repeatedly dismissed—told her issues were likely due to irritable bowel syndrome or menstrual discomfort. But Sydney didn’t let those opinions stop her. Deep down, she trusted her instincts.
Eventually, out of desperation, she told a lie—claiming to have seen blood in her stool—just to be approved for a colonoscopy. That test uncovered what her body had been warning her about all along: a tumor completely blocking her colon. By the time it was discovered, the cancer had already spread to her liver and lungs. It was stage 4 colorectal cancer.
Now 31, Sydney has endured surgeries and 24 rounds of chemotherapy. She’s stable today, but her journey is a powerful example of the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare—especially for young adults, women, and others whose symptoms are too often dismissed.
Trust Your Body
One of the hardest parts of navigating a health crisis is feeling unheard. Sydney’s story is not unique; many patients report having to push hard to get the tests and care they need. If something feels off, speak up. Track your symptoms, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to seek a second—or third—opinion.
Screening Guidelines Don’t Catch Everyone
Sydney was far younger than the recommended age for colorectal cancer screening, which is typically 45. But cancer doesn’t always follow the rules. Her experience reveals a crucial flaw in the system: age-based screening guidelines can miss early, treatable disease in younger adults. If you have symptoms or a family history of cancer, push for earlier screening.
Speak Up and Stay Informed
Being your own advocate doesn’t mean going it alone—it means being an informed, persistent participant in your care. Whether it's requesting further testing, researching your symptoms, or bringing a trusted friend to appointments, taking an active role can make all the difference.
Sydney Stoner’s experience is a sobering reminder that being polite, quiet, and patient can be deadly when your health is on the line. Her determination likely saved her life—and it can inspire others to do the same.
If you’re feeling dismissed or unheard, don’t stop pushing. Your health is worth fighting for.
Reference
For more information on how HuMOLYTE can support your gut health during chemotherapy, visit our product page or consult your health care provider.
This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
