York County News

Jim Hopkins, a 72-year-old former construction worker and current school janitor, has shared his experience with colon cancer in hopes of encouraging others to follow medical advice regarding screenings. Known for his "tough guy" persona, Hopkins avoided undergoing colonoscopies, which are generally recommended every ten years for adults starting at age 45.

Megan Yeager, a nurse practitioner at WellSpan Digestive Health – Ephrata, emphasized the importance of such screenings: “A colonoscopy is the gold standard for accuracy in detecting colon cancer and it can catch pre-cancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.” She also mentioned that there are two at-home test options available for eligible individuals.

Hopkins was initially uninterested in these tests. He said, “You know how some guys are. I knew several people who had gone for colonoscopies and every one of them had a clean bill of health. I never knew anyone who had colon cancer. Being the tough guy, I never got tested.”

His perspective changed when he noticed blood in his stool. At 71, he underwent his first colonoscopy at the WellSpan Endoscopy Center in Lancaster County and was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. The diagnosis was unexpected as he felt no symptoms: “It was pretty devastating. My wife was really upset,” Hopkins recalled.

Currently receiving chemotherapy every two weeks at WellSpan Ephrata Cancer Center, Hopkins acknowledges that while his treatment will not cure the cancer, it allows him to continue enjoying life with his family. He expressed gratitude for the care received: “I have no visible side effects of the treatment,” adding that he experiences no nausea or fatigue.

Reflecting on his journey, Hopkins urges others to prioritize their health: “Don’t be bullheaded like me. Go and get a colonoscopy whenever your doctor recommends it.”

Hopkins remains positive about his situation and maintains close relationships with those involved in his care at the center.