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- A 33-year-old nurse thought her bleeding was caused by hemorrhoids. She was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. (businessinsider.com)
Bryce Ramsey, now 40, was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer at age 33 after years of dismissing a key symptom-blood in her stool. Initially attributing the bleeding to hemorrhoids related to childbirth and larger bowel movements, Ramsey, a registered nurse, didn’t seek immediate medical attention despite the symptom’s persistence.
Over time, as the bleeding intensified by 2019, she consulted a gastroenterologist who, despite her young age and lack of family history, recommended a colonoscopy. The procedure revealed a large polyp that couldn’t be removed at once, and subsequent testing confirmed the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes.
In November 2019, Ramsey underwent surgery to remove three feet of her colon and 13 lymph nodes. Shortly afterward, she began a rigorous chemotherapy regimen consisting of both intravenous and oral treatments. Despite severe side effects, including significant weight loss and heightened sensitivity to cold, she continued working as a branch manager for a home health agency, often bringing her computer to treatments.
Ramsey credits her determination to stay strong to her son Ashton and her recent engagement to Mickee, who later became her husband. Remarkably, just months after completing chemotherapy in March 2020, Ramsey discovered she was pregnant with her second son, Emree Lucas-Ray-a joyous surprise that defied her initial fears about the baby’s health.
Following her diagnosis, Ramsey underwent genetic testing and learned she has Lynch syndrome, an inherited condition that increases the risk of colon, uterine, and ovarian cancers. This discovery prompted her to encourage family members to get screened, leading to early detections and treatments for several relatives.
Today, Ramsey is in remission and remains vigilant with regular screenings and medical follow-ups. In 2024, she was crowned Mrs.
Mississippi Plus America, using her platform to raise awareness about colon cancer and the importance of genetic testing. She emphasizes the need to trust one’s instincts, sharing, “If it doesn’t seem right, more than likely it’s not,” underscoring that even as a nurse, she initially underestimated the seriousness of her symptoms.
Ramsey’s journey highlights the critical importance of early detection and advocacy, particularly for younger individuals who may not expect to face such diagnoses.