Healthy, Active Mom Shares the Subtle Warning Signs She Ignored Before Her Bowel Cancer Diagnosis

A Life That Took an Unexpected Turn

At 39, Krystal Maeyke appeared to be the picture of health. She exercised regularly, ate well, and lived an active life as a devoted mother. To anyone who met her, she looked vibrant and strong. But beneath that healthy exterior, something silent and deadly was growing — and by the time she realized it, it was already too late.

In May 2023, Krystal’s life changed in an instant. What she had assumed were harmless stomach pains turned out to be stage four bowel cancer — a diagnosis that would ultimately claim her life.

Before she passed, Krystal shared her story publicly in the hope of warning others. She wanted people to pay attention to their bodies, to take persistent pain seriously, and to seek help early.

Continue reading…