From surprise diagnosis to recovery: Chip's colon cancer journey
When Charles “Chip” Allen learned he had colon cancer, the diagnosis came as a shock.
He had not had symptoms. The cancer was found after imaging for an unrelated concern, followed by a colonoscopy that confirmed there was a problem. As Chip put it, hearing the words “colon cancer” is enough to “get your heart going.”
A few weeks later, Chip was referred to Dr. Daine Bennett, a colorectal surgeon at HCA HealthONE Swedish, where he learned he was a candidate for a minimally invasive approach known as single-port transabdominal colorectal surgery.
For the right patients, single-port surgery allows the surgeon to perform complex abdominal surgery through one small incision. In colorectal surgery, this approach can help reduce the physical impact of surgery while still allowing the surgeon to remove the cancer and surrounding tissue as needed. Minimally invasive colorectal surgery is often associated with smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, reduced scarring, and a quicker recovery compared with traditional open surgery.
For Chip, the experience was straightforward from the beginning.
“Smooth. Professional. On time,” he said of his first appointment. “Given the experience and what we were dealing with, I don’t know how it could have been better.”
Dr. Bennett explained the surgery in detail, including what to expect before, during and after the procedure. Chip said there were no surprises, which helped him feel prepared going into surgery.
The operation was performed through a single incision using robotic-assisted technology. Robotic-assisted colorectal surgery may offer enhanced visualization and precision for the surgeon while supporting a minimally invasive approach for patients who are appropriate candidates. Eligibility depends on factors such as cancer stage, tumor location, overall health and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Chip spent about a day and a half in the hospital. His recovery was measured and careful, with lifting restrictions at first and a gradual return to normal activity over the following weeks.
“I was just careful,” he said. “Given what it was, I don’t see how it could have been better.”
That recovery was especially meaningful because Chip was 71 and also managing Type 1 diabetes. Even with those factors, he said he felt well within a couple of months of surgery and had not had to give up the things he enjoys.
Today, Chip is back home with his wife of 37 years and close to his son and 2-year-old grandson. When asked what he enjoys doing with his grandson, his answer was simple: “Watching him play.”
He also remembers the care team at HCA HealthONE Swedish with gratitude. The background notes from his care team said he did well after surgery, had minimal pain and even brought flowers to the nurses before leaving the hospital.
“Really wonderful people over there,” Chip said. “I don’t see how the experience could have been better.”
For patients facing colorectal cancer, Chip’s story is a reminder that surgery does not always have to mean a long, difficult recovery. With the right diagnosis, the right surgical plan and an experienced team, advanced minimally invasive options such as single-port colorectal surgery can help patients move forward with less disruption and more confidence.