A routine colonoscopy that saved a life: Lisa’s colorectal cancer story

For nearly five years, the changes to Lisa’s health were subtle enough to ignore.

“I noticed a slow and unintentional weight loss,” Lisa said. “Along with it came loose stools and occasional nausea and vomiting, but interestingly, no pain or discomfort.”

It wasn’t until she realized she had dropped back to her high school weight that she knew it was time to seek care.

“When I stepped on the scale and saw that number, I knew something wasn’t right,” she said.

After multiple visits with gastroenterologists and a colonoscopy, Lisa was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease affecting the small intestine, which led to a narrowing, or stricture, in her intestines. Over time, she learned to live with the condition, even jokingly naming the stricture “Stanley.”

A proactive approach to colon health

As her symptoms worsened, Lisa was referred to Inova gastroenterologist Jean Donet, MD, Director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program at Inova, who took a proactive, long‑term approach to her care.

“From the beginning, Dr. Donet approached my care with both expertise and compassion,” Lisa said.

Rather than immediately recommending surgery, Dr. Donet developed a treatment plan focused on medication and close monitoring – including routine colonoscopies to stay ahead of any changes.

“When treating Crohn’s disease, my goal is to control inflammation while helping patients maintain the best possible quality of life. That means choosing the right therapy but also following patients closely over time,” Dr. Donet said. “Colonoscopy allows us to monitor the intestine carefully and make sure we’re staying ahead of any changes.”

After beginning treatment, Lisa’s symptoms quickly resolved.

“Remarkably, after my first infusion I became symptom-free,” Lisa said.

Just as importantly, a routine colonoscopy allowed Dr. Donet to closely monitor Lisa’s colon health. That decision would ultimately save her life.

Catching colon cancer early

During a routine colonoscopy in September 2025, Dr. Donet identified a small abnormal area in the colon and ordered a biopsy. The results revealed early‑stage colorectal cancer.

“Colorectal cancer can develop quietly, without causing symptoms early on,” Dr. Donet said. “Colonoscopy allows us to detect it at a stage when treatment is much simpler and outcomes are far better. Lisa’s story is a powerful reminder of how important routine screening can be.”

Because the cancer was detected early through routine screening, Lisa was able to undergo surgery within a month, and she did not require chemotherapy or radiation.

A life‑saving reminder

Looking back, Lisa believes that even though they were a hassle, the routine colonoscopies Dr. Donet ordered to monitor her Crohn’s disease ultimately saved her life.

“I truly believe that Dr. Donet, and even my pesky friend Stanley, saved my life,” Lisa said. “What once felt like an inconvenience turned out to be the reason my cancer was caught early.”

Today, Lisa hopes her story encourages others not to delay recommended screenings.

“Colonoscopies aren’t just about finding problems,” she said. “They can prevent something far worse.”

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

In honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Lisa encourages everyone to prioritize their colon health and stay current with recommended screenings.

“Early detection truly saves lives,” Lisa said.

Already have an Inova gastroenterologist? Log in to MyChart to request your screening appointment.

Need a GI specialist? We welcome you to contact any of our Inova Gastroenterology locations to get started.

Not sure where to begin? The Inova Saville Cancer Screening and Prevention Center can help determine the right test and timing for you.