Woman Diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer at 21 Survives Thanks to Community Support

HEBER CITY, Utah — Brinlee Luster, a 24-year-old woman, faced a life-altering diagnosis of stage 4 colon cancer at the age of 21, after a year of debilitating symptoms. Initially dismissing her severe stomach pains and fatigue as stress from college and wedding planning, it was her twin sister, Mariela, who urged her to seek medical attention.

“Her whole personality started shifting because Brinlee has always been a super go-getter, and then all of a sudden she started just getting really depressed,” Mariela said. The twins, who share everything from school to their husbands, became increasingly concerned as Brinlee’s health deteriorated.

After numerous medical visits and increased pain, doctors discovered a tumor blocking Brinlee’s colon. The diagnosis shocked her family as they learned the cancer had already spread to her lymph nodes and liver.

Brinlee, who was known for her lively spirit, soon found herself navigating a new reality filled with treatments, surgeries, and the daunting financial burdens that followed. After undergoing chemotherapy, she sought to preserve her options for future family planning through egg freezing.

The procedure, which imposed an out-of-pocket cost between $15,000 to $20,000, fueled a community push for support. Friends and family rallied, contributing to the costs associated with treatment. Brinlee and her husband, Parker, were able to access financial assistance from two nonprofits focused on fertility support for cancer patients.

As treatments progressed, Brinlee’s health fluctuated, but she remained resilient, often taking time to comfort others amidst her struggles. She founded a small business with Mariela, known as The Port Studio, creating inspirational affirmation cards for patients.

Their shared experience deepened their bond, serving as both a source of strength and of survivor’s guilt for Mariela, as she continued her career while facing the reality of her sister’s illness. Living with the ongoing threat posed by Brinlee’s cancer diagnosis has shifted their lives and future goals indefinitely.

Dr. Mark Lewis, Brinlee’s oncologist, noted that cases of colon cancer in young adults have been rising, with no clear cause identified. He emphasized that factors like early-life antibiotics and environmental influences may play a role, but more research is necessary.

Brinlee recently celebrated a milestone; 10 months after her diagnosis, she received news that her latest test results showed no signs of remaining cancer cells. The news brought a wave of relief, yet concerns linger over her future health.

As the twins reflect on their journey, Brinlee expressed a determined outlook: “I can’t control if it comes back or not. The only thing I can control is how I respond to things,” highlighting their commitment to stay present while embracing the uncertainties ahead.