Colorectal Cancer Screening Saved Natashia’s Life: A Survivor’s Story

When should you get screened for colorectal cancer? What happens if a colonoscopy finds a cancerous polyp? Delaware dietitian and rectal cancer survivor Natashia Morris-Harrison shares her story and explains why she now tells everyone: screenings save lives.

Natashia Morris-Harrison knew the importance of cancer screenings.

As a Delaware dietitian and nutritionist, she regularly encouraged others to take care of their health. She also understood that colorectal cancer screening can find cancer or precancerous growths before they become more serious.

But when it came to her own colonoscopy, Natashia kept putting it off. Eventually, her doctor told her, “You really have got to get this done.”

That colonoscopy changed her life. Doctors found an extremely large polyp. Testing showed that the polyp was cancerous and Natashia was diagnosed with rectal cancer.

Today, she is a cancer survivor — and an outspoken advocate for colorectal cancer screening.

Finding A Colorectal Cancer Care Team

After her diagnosis, Natashia turned to the physicians and care team who would guide her through treatment.

She had been with her primary care physician for more than 25 years. When she called after her diagnosis, the office moved quickly to help her get the care she needed.She met with colorectal surgeon Assar Rather, MD, FACS, FASCRS and his team at Bayhealth, along with her husband.

One thing stood out to Natashia immediately: Dr. Rather took the time to make sure both she and her husband understood what was happening. “My husband really doesn’t know much about healthcare,” Natashia said. “So he actually drew him a picture.”

That simple act reassured her. “I knew then that I was in a safe place.”

“I had surgery to remove the polyps, when I woke up and Dr. Rather said the surgery was successful. I felt relieved, just to know that everything was going to be okay. I know that I was truly blessed.”

Throughout her treatment, Natashia said she felt supported by the entire team. “They held my hand through every single step of the way,” she said.

Even during the most difficult moments, she knew she could reach out to the office with questions or concerns. “Having cancer, it was hard, but it wasn’t as hard,” Natashia said. “It was like I had a whole team behind me.”

Why Colorectal Cancer Screening Matters

Natashia's experience reinforced something she had already told her clients and community: cancer screening can save lives.

That made Natashia even more determined to talk about the importance of screening. She discusses cancer screenings at community events, with clients and with anyone willing to listen.

“I’m here and I try and make sure that people know the screenings are available,” she said. “Screenings save lives, because it saved mine.”

When Should You Get Screened For Colorectal Cancer?

For people at average risk, colorectal cancer screening generally begins at age 45. People with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, certain medical conditions or other risk factors may need to begin screening earlier or be screened more often.

There are several colorectal cancer screening options, including stool-based tests and visual examinations such as colonoscopy. A colonoscopy allows doctors to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for abnormalities, including polyps and colorectal cancer. Polyps can sometimes become cancerous, which is why finding and removing them during screening can help prevent colorectal cancer.

If you are 45 or older, or have risk factors for colorectal cancer, talk with your healthcare provider about screening. Early detection can make a difference.If you are due for colorectal cancer screening, don’t put it off.

Visit Bayhealth.org/Get-Screened to learn more about colorectal cancer screening.