In the bustling world of health care, nurses often find themselves at the forefront of advocating for preventive care.
But Susan Hall, RN, a nurse in Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton’s short stay unit, discovered even the most knowledgeable can find themselves overlooking their own health needs. At 54, Hall found herself past due for a routine colonoscopy, despite the persistent reminders from her coworkers about its importance.
"I had no family history or symptoms whatsoever and was in the best shape of my life," Hall said. "But as a nurse, I knew better."
Peer pressure from her coworkers and colleagues urging her to prioritize her health only intensified as she continued to delay the screening, overshadowed by her other annual checkups like mammograms and physicals.
Finally, Hall scheduled her colonoscopy with John Arledge, MD, a gastroenterologist with West Georgia Gastroenterology Associates, on May 22, 2023, expecting it to be just another routine procedure.
This decision would be life-altering.
“I expected it to just be nothing — a routine screening and I’d be on my way,” said Hall.
Following the colonoscopy, with her husband by her side, Hall received devastating news — she had colorectal cancer.
Feeling great and having run six miles just a week before diagnosis, Hall couldn’t believe what she heard.
“The first words out of my mouth after diagnosis were, ‘People die of colon cancer.’” said Hall. “But that was the one and only time I said that.”
After the initial shock, Hall told friends and family in the days to come.
Dr. Arledge wasted no time in initiating treatment. Hall was swiftly referred to Tanner Cancer Care, with its 3-day Cancer Care Promise, a commitment to providing timely and effective care, promising three days from diagnosis to treatment options. This marked the beginning of Hall’s journey.
Hall then had a consult with David Griffin, MD, a general surgeon with Carrollton Surgical Group. He ordered a CT, which confirmed the mass, and on June 1, Griffin performed a robotic-assisted partial colectomy.
Within a few days after surgery, lab results from the surgery confirmed the cancer was stage three with lymph node involvement.
After surgery, Hall had an appointment with Bradley Larson, MD, a medical oncologist with Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers, to begin her post-surgery treatment plan.
Beginning in July 2023, the next six months were filled with grueling rounds of chemotherapy, each one testing Hall’s physical and emotional resilience. Yet, amid the pain and uncertainty, Hall found solace in her faith in God and unwavering positivity.
"I tried to maintain my exercise, eating habits and keep my mind in a positive place," Hall said. "My faith is where my strength came from."
Hall’s journey underscores the importance of mental fortitude in battling cancer. Despite the discouraging prognosis, she refused to succumb to negativity. She chose instead to focus on the blessings in her life, praying fervently and finding something positive in every day.
As she navigates the aftermath of her diagnosis and treatment, Hall remains committed to her ongoing screenings and follow-up appointments. Colonoscopies will now be a regular part of her healthcare routine, serving as a constant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of proactive health measures.
Through her journey, Hall has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for others facing similar challenges. She credits the unwavering support of her family, friends, coworkers and healthcare team at Tanner Health for guiding her through the darkest moments and providing the resources needed to navigate her unique path to recovery.
Returning to work full-time just two months after finishing chemo treatments is a testament not only to Hall’s strength and faith but also the dedication, care and compassion she received from her care team.
“I can’t say enough about the team that we have at Tanner — gastroenterology, surgery, infusion center, oncology,” said Hall. “This is what they deal with day in and day out and everybody’s journey is so different, but we have amazing resources here.”
Hall’s determination to not only survive but thrive in the face of colorectal cancer is a reminder to us all of the power of positivity, faith and community in the journey towards healing.
"Nobody wants to talk about colonoscopies, cameras, bowel movements or anything to do with that part of the body," Hall said. "But early detection, prevention and awareness is key. Even if you’re feeling great — nobody is immune to a cancer diagnosis."
“My advice to anyone going through it is to just stay positive,” said Hall. “Our minds play such a huge role in healing and our ability to have strength and endurance during both the physically and mentally trying times.”
In recognizing Hall’s journey, it’s also important to remember the value of regular screenings and early detection in the fight against colorectal cancer this March — Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Together, we can spread awareness and support those facing this formidable foe, so that no one battles alone in the pursuit of health and well-being.
For more information on scheduling a colonoscopy, visit tanner.org/colonoscopy.
To schedule a colonoscopy, call 770-214-2800.