As Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month approaches in March, Richmond resident CiNease Freeman is taking her story to a national stage.

Freeman, a Stage III rectal cancer survivor diagnosed at 28, is being featured in a campaign by Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) to raise awareness of the disease and the importance of early detection. Despite experiencing symptoms such as stomach pain, she was shocked by her diagnosis in June 2022.

Her journey will be highlighted in several high-profile locations next month. March 1 through 14, her story will appear on the NASDAQ screen in Times Square, drawing attention to the need for increased awareness. A display on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., from March 9 through 22 will feature 27,400 blue flags representing those affected by colorectal cancer. Her story also will be featured on Fightcrc.org and its social media channels. 

Freeman has become an advocate for colorectal cancer awareness and will meet with members of Congress on March 11 to discuss the need for increased research funding and accessible screenings.

“Cancer is not a death sentence,” she said, emphasizing the importance of positivity and community support during treatment.

For more information on colorectal cancer symptoms, statistics, and advocacy efforts, visit Fightcrc.org.