Emily Dickenson

Emily Dickenson is an active retiree who lives seasonally in Venice. She stays busy with walking up to four miles a day, bike riding, boating, and keeping up with her regular medical check-ups. Last year during a routine check, she was diagnosed with colon cancer. “I felt healthy…I received a letter that the results came back positive and to contact my physician.” Dickenson was referred to surgeon Wesley Hendricks, D.O. FACOS at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Surgical Specialists. “Yes I was nervous, but with stage one colon cancer and Dr. Hendricks, I felt that I was in great hands and going to beat this,” said Dickenson.

She had immediate surgery at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital. “I am seeing more women with colon cancer and younger women too. This is a good reminder to have regular colonoscopies so we can catch this early and treat it quickly,” said Dr. Hendricks.

June is National Cancer Survivor Month. For women who are at average risk, the American Cancer Society recommends colon cancer screenings starting at age of 45. For those with a family history of colon cancer, precancerous polyps in the past or inflammatory bowel disease, the recommendation is earlier colon cancer screenings. [1]

After a successful surgery, Dickenson is doing well and looking forward to spending time with her family and grandchildren. “I feel great.  I am back to biking, walking and enjoying time that God has given me to remain on this earth for a little while longer. One of the greatest things is I have Dr. Hendricks to watch my back,” added Dickenson.

[1] cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/acs-recommendations.html