Marcus Wendling completed a half Ironman in May 2023, celebrating his health and fitness, only to face a Stage 3 rectal cancer diagnosis months later at 47. Initially shocked by symptoms like blood in his stool, he acted promptly, highlighting the importance of awareness and early screening. Despite having no family history or prior medical issues, his story emphasizes that colorectal cancer is increasingly common in younger individuals, urging others to be proactive about their health through regular check-ups and screenings, especially after the recommended screening age was lowered to 45.
"I eat a healthy diet. I exercise six days a week. I always have been on top of my health," Wendling said. "So up until that time, you feel like you have this sense of invincibility."
"I went for a full physical, and everything - all the blood work and numbers - turned out great," he continued, "but I told that doctor in Dayton, I said, 'Hey, I need to get a colonoscopy.'"
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