Rose’s Story: A Journey of Family, Resilience, and Self-Care
For Rose Kim, taking care of her three daughters, husband, and father always came first. “I was so bad with my doctor’s appointments,” she says. “I’d always take my kids. I’d always take my father. But when it came time for mine, and something else came up, I would reschedule.” With so much of her energy going to her family and working, taking care of herself came last. When she finally went for her routine colonoscopy, in October 2022 – three years after turning 50 – she got shocking news: She had stage 3 rectal cancer.
After the diagnosis, Rose scheduled an appointment with NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia colorectal surgeon Dr. Beatrice Dionigi, and medical oncologist Dr. Yoanna Pumpalova. She underwent radiation, followed by six rounds of chemotherapy, and in July 2023, had surgery to remove the tumor. “I thought life was back to normal,” says Rose.
A Second, Unexpected Battle
The second time around was an emotional rollercoaster and there were times I wanted to give up.
Three months later, during one of her monthly circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) blood tests – a newer technology designed to detect molecular signs of cancer in the blood – something unexpected happened: The test came back positive.
A follow-up PET scan showed that the cancer had returned to the same area as before. Rose credits the ctDNA test for the quick diagnosis and her care team for their quick response. Her case was discussed at Columbia’s tumor board as her care team worked to pinpoint her cancer and build the best care plan.
Rose started chemotherapy again, and shortly afterwards, had her second surgery. The surgeons discovered that her cancer was larger than they first thought and had to place a permanent stoma—an opening in the abdomen that allows waste to be collected in an external ostomy bag.
Rose acknowledges that treatment and recovery after the recurrence was even more challenging. “The first time around, I did everything the doctor said, but the second time around was an emotional rollercoaster and there were times I wanted to give up,” says Rose. “It was the thought of my family that made me realize I’ve got to get through this. That’s what made me want to be strong.”
Faith, Family, and Moving Forward
Rose, 55, is now recovered and cancer-free. While living with a stoma has been an adjustment, she is embracing life with her family, going on vacations and enjoying activities like swimming, pilates, hiking, and skiing. “I’m getting braver and braver,” she says.
Since her second diagnosis, Rose has started to prioritize her health – she has adopted a completely vegan lifestyle, started exercising more, and joined a support group for her mental health.
She credits her faith and family as the guiding forces in her recovery. “Our family unit is closer and stronger—a different kind of closeness than before. I’m grateful for this and it makes me cherish every day.”
Rose’s care team watched her face each setback with courage, perseverance, and a deep love for her family. Her ability to stay hopeful – despite two major surgeries, multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and a life with a permanent stoma – left a lasting impression on her doctors.
“Rose’s story is one of the most resilient ones that I have encountered,” says Dr. Dionigi.
As she reflects on her journey, Rose says, “I truly felt cared for by my team of doctors. They showed compassion and listened to my concerns. I had peace knowing I was in good hands, with a team that treated me like family.”
References
Adapted from NewYork-Presbyterian.
