When Pam Allen appeared on 11Alive, her message was simple but powerful: getting a colonoscopy at the right time can save your life.
A colorectal cancer survivor now more than 10 years cancer-free, Pam shared her journey to help others understand when to get a colonoscopy, and why listening to your body matters.
A Call That Changed Everything
Pam was 51 years old when she received a call from her insurance provider recommending she schedule a colonoscopy. At the time, she had never even heard of the procedure.
That screening appointment would ultimately change her life.
During her colonoscopy, doctors discovered colon cancer, a diagnosis that came as a shock, but also at a critical moment when it could be treated.
Symptoms That Were Easy to Miss
Looking back, Pam realized she had been experiencing symptoms for years, including bloating, stomach pain, digestive changes, and episodes of burping up bile. She had seen multiple providers about these issues, but was never advised to get a colonoscopy. Her story highlights an important reality: colorectal cancer symptoms can be subtle and are sometimes overlooked.
Finding Care Close to Home in Northeast Georgia
After her diagnosis, Pam was referred to University Cancer & Blood Center (UCBC) in Northeast Georgia. There, she found not only expert care but a team that helped ease her fears during one of the most difficult moments of her life. As Pam has shared in her broader journey, the support she received helped her shift her mindset — from planning for the worst to focusing on recovery and living.
Today, she credits her care team and early detection for helping her reach a major milestone: more than a decade cancer-free.
You can watch her 11Alive interview here and hear her story in her own words.
You can also read Pam’s full patient story here to learn more about her journey and recovery.
Why Knowing When to Get a Colonoscopy Matters
Pam’s experience underscores an important question many people have: when should you get a colonoscopy?
Current guidelines recommend:
- Starting screening at age 45 for average-risk individuals
- Earlier screening for those with a family history or certain risk factors
- Paying attention to symptoms like changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, or blood in the stool
Most importantly, don’t ignore persistent symptoms, even if they seem minor.
Turning Her Experience Into Advocacy
Since her diagnosis and recovery, Pam has made it her mission to raise awareness about colorectal cancer.
“I don’t want another person to suffer because they were not heard,” she shared.
Her story is a powerful reminder that being proactive about your health and advocating for yourself can make all the difference.
Don’t Wait. Get Screened.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when detected early. If you are 45 or older, or experiencing symptoms, now is the time to take action. Call 762-356-4785 to schedule your colonoscopy today, or reach out via our contact page.
Serving patients across Northeast Georgia, University Health Alliance and University Cancer & Blood Center are here to support you with expert, compassionate care every step of the way.