In Memory of Michael Stern

Michael was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer in 2019. He was an ambassador for Fight Colorectal Cancer, tirelessly working to inspire others to undergo timely screenings and preventive measures. His advocacy extended to Washington, where he pushed for increased cancer research funding. In March 2023, he was honored as one of 15 survivors whose stories were displayed on outdoor digital boards next to 27,400 blue flags on the National Mall, representing the expected cases of colorectal cancer in people under 50.

Michael was interviewed in 2022 as part of his involvement with Fight CRC, and this is what he shared.

"I found out about my cancer diagnosis waking up from my colonoscopy in October 2019. At that time, it was unknown what stage I was at, just that it was most likely a cancerous polyp. It took about a week to find out it progressed to stage IV. I turned to Google, which was a very big mistake. After reading most of the results that I had about a 14% chance of living past five years, my life stood still for that moment. All I could think of is, “Will I see my kids grow up?” “What do I say to them?” “How can I leave my family at this time, I have so much more to do?” It took me a few weeks to come to grips with things. Then I started to think in a different direction.  

I was very fortunate to have my wife (aka my rock) stand by my side and listen to the waterfall of information thrown at me as I was unable to comprehend anything. She was able to help me process things. I found the best medical team and focused on anything I can do to beat this. I surrounded myself with an incredible support system, family and friends, who pushed me every day to keep going and stay strong. After multiple surgeries, chemo treatments, temporary ileostomy and then a permanent one, CT scans, MRIs, blood draws, and port flushes, I stand here today NED and stronger than ever. Having the right mindset in a cancer journey is half the battle."

Michael’s Advice

"The fear for me was getting that colonoscopy. It was the total opposite of what I thought it was. It was so easy. I wish I knew this sooner as I would have gotten my colonoscopy a few years earlier. The polyp could have been found early and prevented me from having cancer. My advice is simple. GET A COLONOSCOPY. It could save your life."