Rusty's Story

An early colonoscopy led to a colorectal cancer diagnosis

Colorectal Cancer | Early Detection for Firefighters

Fire Captain Rusty Grow never expected a routine precaution to become the most important decision of his life.

At 41, he felt strong, healthy and symptom-free. But after years on the job, Rusty knew firefighters face higher cancer risks due to repeated exposure to smoke, chemicals and toxic environments. So Rusty scheduled an early colonoscopy, not because he felt sick, but because he wanted to stay ahead of potential risks.

That decision revealed colorectal cancer.

“I honestly didn’t believe it at first,” Rusty said. “I felt great, took care of myself and had no symptoms at all. The reality didn’t fully hit until I thought about having to tell my kids their dad had cancer.”

Colorectal cancer treatent at age 41

The diagnosis reshaped Rusty’s world almost overnight. His days, once filled with firehouse routines and family time, quickly became anchored around treatment schedules and medical appointments.

He began an aggressive treatment plan that included chemotherapy infusions and oral chemotherapy pills over four months. Follow-up scans determined the next step: daily radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy at Moffitt Cancer Center, beginning Nov. 18, 2025. To receive care, Rusty temporarily relocated to Tampa, spending weeks away from his children in Charleston, South Carolina — one of the hardest parts of the journey. Despite the disruption, he focused on what he could control.

When his body allowed, he stayed active. He worked out, fished and spent time with loved ones whenever possible. These routines helped him maintain a sense of normalcy during a time when so much felt uncertain.

Throughout treatment, Rusty leaned on a network that never wavered. “My kids, parents, siblings, extended family, friends and my entire work family supported me every single day,” he said. “Without them, this journey would have been much harder.”

He also found reassurance in the care he received at Moffitt, from the first appointment to the final treatment. “From the valet team to the nurses and doctors, I was treated like family,” Rusty shared. “They truly are the best of the best. Every person I encountered cared deeply, and it showed.”

That sense of compassion mattered just as much as the clinical expertise, especially during long days of radiation and chemotherapy.

What it means to finish cancer treatment and ring the bell

On Jan. 5, 2026, Rusty reached a milestone he had envisioned through months of treatment.

He rang the bell.

The moment marked the completion of therapy, and something more. Rusty was the first patient to ring the bell in 2026, a powerful symbol of perseverance, resilience and hope. For Rusty, it represented not just the end of treatment, but the beginning of a future shaped by gratitude and perspective.

Why early colonoscopy screening improves cancer outcomes

Rusty’s experience has turned him into a strong advocate for early detection, particularly for firefighters and first responders who face increased cancer risks. “Early detection saved my life,” he said. “Don’t wait, and don’t settle for anything less than the best.”

Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms in its early stages. For Rusty, taking action before he felt unwell made all the difference, allowing treatment to begin early and improving his chance of survival.

Encouraging firefighters and first responders to prioritize cancer screening

Today, Rusty is focused on healing, family and returning to the life he loves. He carries with him a deeper awareness of how quickly things can change. His story is a reminder that strength doesn’t always come from pushing through pain. Sometimes, it comes from listening, acting early and trusting expert care.

And sometimes, a single precaution can change everything.