Finding My Way Back to Joy: My Journey Through Colorectal Cancer

My name is Treva Chadwell. I am 58 years old, and I live with my husband, mom, daughter, and two grandsons. I work at Central Market as a chef and manager of the Cooking School. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer in July of 2023. Putting it on paper makes it sound simple, but there is nothing simple about the path to a diagnosis followed by treatment, and then hopefully, recovery.

A Quiet Start to a Difficult Path

It started with a routine colonoscopy. I had no symptoms of illness; in fact, I was feeling better than I had in a while. I went to sleep under anesthesia and woke up to my doctor’s concerned face. After a referral to a surgeon, I had an MRI that found spots in my lymph nodes and three on my liver. I gained another doctor: my oncologist. Nine rounds of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, iron infusions, shots to strengthen my white blood cells, surgery, and radiation followed.

The Power of True Understanding

How does one get through all of this? In a word—support. I have some of the kindest people I have ever met as my doctors. I have friends and family members who drove me to treatments and sat with me for six-hour infusions. I am closer to some of them as a result. My husband has been with me every step of the way.

The support is wonderful, but they didn’t fully understand what I was going through. That’s why ThriveWell Cancer Foundation is so important. There are leaders and participants who have had a similar journey to mine. None of us are the same, but we share an understanding. We are living with cancer. It is with us and always will be. Most people try to understand; the folks with ThriveWell really do.

Navigating the Challenges of Survivorship

My recovery has been slow, marked by both success and challenges. The treatment, including surgery, has stopped the spread of the cancer. I have been having scans and scopes every three months to monitor my progress, and at my last doctor’s visit, she declared that I have started my “survivorship.”

Surviving has its challenges as well. Treatment has accelerated neuropathy in my hands and feet that has been crippling at times. I have also developed advanced osteoporosis, paired with fractured vertebrae. I asked my oncologist how people get through these challenges—both physical and emotional. She told me about ThriveWell. I am so glad I called.

Learning to Thrive Again

I met Josée Battle, Program Director, ThriveWell Cancer Foundation that first day. She connected me to the Diva&Dude program where I get information on nutrition, counseling, and my new favorite thing—strength training. I have never spent so much time in a gym, and I look forward to working with the Instructor every time.

Once again, I feel better than I have in a long time. I am looking forward to discovering new ways to participate, being able to do more, and finding new ways to THRIVE. I am working on finding joy again.

Join the Community: Are you or a loved one navigating a similar journey? You don’t have to do it alone. Learn more about the Diva&Dude program and discover how you can THRIVE with the support of the ThriveWell community.

For Those Wanting to Support our Mission
Support the Journey: Your generosity helps survivors like Treva access life-changing programs like Diva&Dude. Donate today to help more members of our community THRIVE after a diagnosis.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month