Piedmont Augusta patient shares importance of screening during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Augusta, Ga. (March 16, 2026) —During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Piedmont Augusta is sharing the story of Wendy Coker, an Augusta woman who trusted her instincts, got screened and underwent successful colorectal surgery that helped her return to daily life.

In early 2024, Wendy was caring for her father during his final weeks with bile duct cancer. He passed in February. Within weeks following his death, Wendy began experiencing significant bleeding after bowel movements and knew something wasn’t right.

She trusted her instincts and scheduled a colonoscopy. Doctors found a single polyp that later tested positive for cancer. She was referred to Ankur Goel, MD, colorectal surgeon at Piedmont Physicians Colon and Rectal Surgery at Augusta and underwent surgery to remove a wiffle-ball-sized tumor, along with half of her rectum and 12-14 inches of her sigmoid colon.

Her recovery also included an ileostomy reversal and pelvic floor therapy. “Every day is challenging, as I have new bathroom and bowel habits to deal with,” Wendy said. “I’ve been in pelvic floor therapy since April of 2025. My therapist, Ana, has been amazing!

Throughout treatment, Wendy stayed focused on living fully. She celebrated her daughter’s senior prom and high‑school graduation, baked a wedding cake for a family wedding, and even took Dr. Goel skeet shooting as a lighthearted thank you.

Now back to fishing, hunting and spending time outdoors, Wendy continues to thrive professionally as a top‑producing real estate agent. Her story has already prompted loved ones to get screened, and several have had precancerous polyps removed because of her encouragement.

Colorectal cancer is increasingly diagnosed in younger adults, and lowering the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 is intended to detect precancerous polyps before symptoms appear. Wendy’s experience shows how critical early action can be.

Despite everything, Wendy remains focused on gratitude and prevention. “If I can encourage anyone, no matter the age, if you are having any symptoms, please see your physician and get screened.”

Piedmont Augusta encourages community members to talk with their physician about colorectal cancer symptoms and appropriate screening.

Visit Piedmont.org for more information about cancer care and supportive services at Piedmont.