Gemma’s Story

My name is Gemma (Filipino-Canadian). I have colorectal cancer, stage 3B with no symptoms before I got diagnosed. I am a 55-year-old single mom with three sons and one grandson, and I am the first cancer patient in my family. Every cancer patient differs in terms of struggles because each of us has a different system where our body responds differently to the chemo drug and other drugs to make us well. I had suffered side effects that my oncologist calls rare, but I battle my disease with faith in God, faith in my doctors and medical team, and faith in myself that I have lived to this day to share my story.

I firmly believe that fighting cancer with positivity is the most powerful weapon. I was inspired and dedicated to volunteer as a fundraiser for Colon Cancer Canada, now Colorectal Cancer Canada, and I support the Wendy Bear Patient Assistance Program which assists colorectal cancer patients with their financial needs. A legacy that I wish to be a part of Wendy Sittler’s goal to help those afflicted with this disease. I call my campaign “Gemma Loves Blue”.

To date, I was blessed to raise $3,445 and it will continue to rise, as I find more people to support our cause. I believe in the importance of this program and I wanted to do more to help my fellow colorectal cancer patients. It has been a year that I am volunteering in spreading awareness and motivating a lot of people to support the Wendy Bears.

The most uplifting part is I had the opportunity to reach out to colorectal cancer patients and we bonded in friendships in terms of comforting each other’s pains and suffering because of this disease. I believe that I am a living legacy to inspire others with the disease.I am determined in what I do, and I am encouraging my fellow colorectal cancer patients to be strong and, if they can, to join me supporting the cause of Colorectal Cancer Canada. Then we can make a difference not only for ourselves but for others as well. What is wrong with our BUTT can make wonders for others if we try to be a part of every BUTT around us.

First posted on Facebook November 20, 2017