I woke up in pain and a lump in my anus was present. Something was not right.

After six months and doctor appointments hearing the  ‘I have no idea what “it” is,  you’ll have to see someone else’, I found out about the cancer.  “It” turned out to be a sizeable tumour. Up until then I had NO symptoms.

After an exam, the surgeon announced it as “metastatic cancer”. I had to ask them to repeat the statement.  I now know that metastatic cancer, also known as secondary cancer, is cancer that spreads from its original site to other parts of the body. Biopsy surgery, scans, tests and labs diagnosed HPV Anal Cancer stage III.   

As a queer, active, sober, HIV-negative man I was unaware of  HPV. I was shocked, as I was diligent about my healthcare and STI testing.  I knew nothing about Anal Pap Smears: a test which diagnoses the silent virus HPV and strains causing cancer.

The cancer journey started. Some days I felt I was in a medical blender with a turbo cycle. Self-advocacy, humour (no matter how dark)  and having hope is intrinsic to healing.

Ask questions about physical, mental, and sexual health during and post treatment. Spiritual guidance can help. Financial discussions too. Requesting an Oncology Social Worker was a game changer.

It was suggested I ask for help, take notes, have someone with me at appointments and do not hesitate to ask questions regardless of how “stupid” I thought they were.  I asked many questions – 12-pages worth to be exact – and still there are more now that I have lived experience. When I didn’t feel comfortable with a provider or their suggestions I requested a second opinion. I researched and chose the Nigro Protocol (a first-line treatment for anal cancer that combines radiotherapy and chemotherapy). Integrative medicines complemented treatments also.

Today, I am NED (which stands for ‘no evidence of disease’) and am adjusting to my “new normal.”  Continued positive self-talk, fitness, nutrition and far fewer doctor appointments along with going back to work and resting when tired are the prescription.

My journey into the cancer world was fast-paced. I feel it is important I share my experiences, given the “each one teaches one” mantra. I am now a certified Community Health Worker.

Butt (did you like that?) please get a checkup. And if offered, choose HPV Vaccination. 

Remember that YOU ARE NOT ALONE and together we can save lives. I owe a debt of gratitude to my friends and the oncology and medical teams.