Joe Faratzis, a 34-year-old TMZ producer, reflects on the warning signs he ignored before being diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer. His story highlights the critical importance of early detection and listening to your body.
Ignored Warning Signs
Faratzis dismissed several symptoms for months, assuming they were minor issues. It wasn’t until a colonoscopy in 2019 revealed the advanced cancer that he realized the severity of his condition.
- Night Sweats and Fatigue
Faratzis experienced frequent night sweats and fatigue, signs Dr. Cathy Eng of Vanderbilt University notes as potential indicators of advanced colon cancer. - Abdominal Pain and Cramps
Lower-right abdominal pain, cramps when bending over, and constipation were frequent but ignored symptoms. Healthline associates these with issues in the ascending colon. - Frequent Bathroom Trips
An unusual increase in bathroom visits was another overlooked red flag. - Blood in Stool
Faratzis initially attributed blood in his stool to hemorrhoids until the volume forced him to seek medical attention, describing it as the “big catalyst.”
Recovery and Advocacy
Following intensive treatments, including surgery and chemotherapy, Faratzis celebrated his first clear scans in 2023. He now advocates for early screenings, stressing, “Early detection could save your life.”
His story underscores the urgency of addressing persistent symptoms and the lifesaving potential of timely medical intervention.
