Every day on our campus, people and families find new hope in the face of illness and disease. Doug Scanlon is one of those people. 

At just 48 years old, Doug learned he had late-stage colon cancer ‒ and it had spread to his liver. The active husband and father of three was given just 18 to 24 months to live.

But Doug's story took a hopeful turn when his cousin, an oncologist, suggested he consult the CU Cancer Center. There, a multidisciplinary team offered him an innovative treatment approach ‒ one that extended beyond standard chemotherapy and radiation. 

More than just medical care, Doug, his family and friends (aka, Team Doug) found unwavering support and a renewed sense of optimism from a dedicated team of providers that encouraged him along the way.

During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we’re honored to share Doug’s journey of healing and hope. 

Doug’s story is a reminder of why our work at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus is so vital.

With a collaborative team by his side and access to novel therapeutic options for what some considered untreatable, Doug is now cancer-free.

We are grateful to him and his family for sharing this story to raise awareness about colon cancer and the critical importance of screening.

We are also grateful to you for the dedication you bring to this campus and our work to save and improve lives every day.

Sincerely,