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News

Dr. Cindy Sears is named 2021 Women of ID Honoree

Dr. Cindy Sears is named 2021 Women of ID Honoree

The Infectious Diseases Society of America Foundation has recognized OPTIMISTICC Co-Investigator Dr. Cindy Sears, as a 2021 Women of ID honoree for her impactful career in infectious disease research, compassionate care, and mentoring the next generation of ID...

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Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Inspires Team OPTIMISTICC

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Inspires Team OPTIMISTICC

Team OPTIMISTICC kicked off Colon Cancer Awareness month at our March 5 team meeting, where we honored Dress in Blue Day by photographing ourselves in our many shades of blue.  In the top row of the left photograph above you will see Anita Mitchell Isler, who started...

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Changing policy to save lives

Changing policy to save lives

What seemed to be impossible at the age of 40 became a reality in October of 1995. Married with three young children 7, 9 and 13 years old, and practicing law in Montreal, I thought I had it all. I was sure the constant migraines were the caused by the bright lights...

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Reducing numbers, saving lives

Reducing numbers, saving lives

I was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer following an emergency presentation with a rectal haemorrhage. I had severe complications immediately post-surgery and I was not expected to survive. I am one of the lucky ones. I am now a 20 year survivor who has beaten the odds and...

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How I became an advocate

How I became an advocate

I was diagnosed with IV Colon Cancer in 2005  just after turning 41. I had been to my primary doctor 5 months earlier complaining of blood in my stool and diarrhea.I was told it was hemorrhoids and not to worry, I did not need a colonoscopy, like it was a bad thing. I...

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My story as a CRC patient

My story as a CRC patient

It was in 2002-03 Christmas time when I suffered continuous gastrointestinal troubles. I’m a psychologist, a professional who, at that time, was very busy and, threatened by the idea of suffering cancer, I used to say that I did not have time enough to visit any...

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45 is the New 50

45 is the New 50

On October 27, 2020, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force issued a recommendation that colorectal cancer screening of individuals at average risk for the disease start at age 45 rather than age 50. “This recommendation is hugely impactful,” said OPTIMISTICC...

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