PJ’s Story: Taking Action Before Cancer Had a Say
Summary Paragraph
In a personal colorectal cancer story, Greater Cincinnati resident PJ Cosgrove shares how a routine screening led to an early diagnosis and a successful treatment plan. His experience highlights why timely colonoscopies, patient-centered communication and coordinated cancer care can improve outcomes and peace of mind.
Key takeaways
- Screening can find colorectal cancer before symptoms appear – talk with your primary care provider about when to start and which test is right for your risk factors and family history.
- A strong cancer program helps you navigate more than treatment: expect clear next steps, coordinated scheduling and a team that treats your work and home responsibilities as part of the care plan.
- Second opinions and good questions are part of self-advocacy; choosing a care team that welcomes them can build confidence and support better decision-making.
PJ’s Story: Taking Action Before Cancer Had a Say
Paul J. “PJ” Cosgrove, a Greater Cincinnati resident, didn’t feel sick. He had no symptoms and no sense that anything was wrong. He was simply doing what many people put off, getting a routine colonoscopy. That decision changed everything.
Thanks to early detection, PJ is now three years cancer-free. Looking back, he sees his experience at St. Elizabeth as a journey shaped by clear communication and a care team that treated him as a person, not a diagnosis.
When “Routine” Turned Serious
PJ’s colonoscopy revealed multiple tumors in his lower colon. Three were cancerous, including one that was large and embedded in the colon wall. “I took the diagnosis seriously and sought multiple expert opinions on surgical techniques and treatment approaches,” PJ remembers. He wanted clarity before moving forward.
Finding Confidence in a Care Team
Living in the Greater Cincinnati region gave PJ access to many care options, but he really resonated with how the team at St. Elizabeth treated second opinions. Rather than discouraging those conversations, Dr. Jai Bikhchandani, a Colon and Rectal Surgeon at St. Elizabeth, supported them.
“To my surprise and appreciation, Dr. Bikhchandani encouraged me to seek those additional opinions,” PJ shares. “That level of confidence and transparency spoke volumes.”
St. Elizabeth quickly assembled a multidisciplinary team to evaluate PJ’s situation. The plan that emerged was thoughtful and tailored specifically to him. “What stood out most was that I was never treated like just another patient,” he says. “They recognized my fears, concerns and the real-life stresses that accompany a diagnosis like this.”
Preparing for What Came Next
Surgery became the turning point in PJ’s journey. Dr. Bikhchandani walked PJ through the procedure in detail and explained what to expect afterward. That clarity allowed PJ to prepare mentally and physically.
Because surgery was planned, the care team worked to schedule it at a time that aligned with PJ’s personal and professional responsibilities. As a trial lawyer managing a corporate defense practice at a large firm, work was an important consideration.
“I had to slow down, as much as that is possible for me, to prioritize my health,” PJ explains.
Having open conversations and a clear plan helped him focus on recovery without feeling disconnected from the rest of his life.
Support That Never Wavered
Recovery was not something PJ navigated alone. Multiple points of contact ensured he always had someone to reach out to. Whether he had questions about billing, time off work, test results, follow-up appointments or treatment options, someone was there.
“I reached out frequently,” he says. “Their availability helped me feel informed, calm and in control of my own treatment journey.”
That level of access made a lasting impression. PJ felt cared for not just medically, but personally. “I truly felt like St. Elizabeth was a partner in my journey,” he claims.
Gratitude and Perspective
Today, PJ is thankful for the outcome, three years cancer-free, but his gratitude goes deeper than that. Sharing his story has had an unexpected impact. Friends and colleagues have scheduled colonoscopies, several for the first time.
“Knowing that others may have benefitted because of what I went through brings me a great deal of comfort,” PJ shares.
The experience reshaped how he views health, balance and advocacy. Cancer affected every part of his life, but strong support at home, at work and from his healthcare team made moving forward possible.
What PJ Wants Others to Know
“Educate yourself. Find a doctor and healthcare team you trust, build a positive relationship with them and follow their guidance,” he advises. “Seek additional opinions if you need to, but ultimately, trust the team you choose.”
He also emphasizes the importance of asking questions and staying engaged in care.
“For anyone facing cancer: a diagnosis is not the end of the story,” PJ says. “Colorectal cancer is complex, but modern medicine offers many tools that can tip the scales in your favor.”
Most of all, he encourages people not to delay screenings. Colorectal cancer does not always show symptoms early. For those 45 and older, a colonoscopy can be lifesaving.
PJ knows that firsthand.
