A devastating loss from colon cancer - Our family’s story

March 3, 2025 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 3:30

By: LCdr Linda Coleman, Public Affairs Officer

On September 20^th, 2024, Colonel Commandant, Colonel (Retired) Ralph Coleman died of colon cancer just five weeks after he received his devastating diagnosis. His death left his CAF community in shock and his family reeling. His daughter LCdr Linda Coleman shares this story in his memory in hopes of encouraging CAF members and their families to get early screening for this preventable disease. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Canada.

Something felt off

In July 2024, my posting to Ottawa came to an end and my family was moving to Victoria. I didn’t want to leave but being an Army brat and CAF member myself, I was used to moving. This move felt different though- I was anxious.

I was sad to leave Ottawa, my hometown. I had a strong support network there- my parents lived ten minutes away, my son was born there, and I was close by to help when my Dad developed and beat lymphoma in 2023.

My parents planned to spend time with us after the move, help with childcare, then return for Christmas. But the day our moving truck arrived, Dad called to say he had to cancel their flight due to stomach pain. A few days later he was hospitalized, and early blood test results were showing cancer. We all thought the lymphoma was back.

A devastating diagnosis

The stress and guilt were overwhelming as we waited for news in Victoria. Next thing we know, my Dad is on morphine. Having witnessed my best friend die of cancer just nine months prior, I knew this wasn’t a good sign. I flew home immediately and received the devastating news that Dad had Stage 4 colon cancer. We were in complete shock. How was this missed? What could he have done to avoid this? (It had been several years since his last colonoscopy.)

The cancer spread fast-Dad was going into liver failure and withering away. He opted for the Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) program, and left this world on September 20, 2024 with his family by his side. It was the most difficult day of my life losing my father, best friend, mentor, voice of reason, and my rock. He was the reason I joined the CAF and a very huge part of who I am today. The grief is overwhelming. I remember how badly I wanted to get a photo of us in our uniforms before I left - our last photo together. I’m so glad I pushed for that. It was a reminder to always follow your instincts and to never stall on doing things that are important to you.

Early detection can save lives

It had been only five weeks from the moment of diagnosis to his passing. If that’s not a wake-up call to get a colonoscopy, then I don’t know what is. I will be getting my first colonoscopy early, as there is a genetic factor to cancer. Any person 50 years and older should be screened for colorectal cancer. Start talking to your healthcare provider before you reach 50 to determine your risk factors and to see if you need earlier screening. Learn the symptoms and advocate for yourself. It can truly save your life.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer death in Canada. However, if caught early, it is usually treatable, which is why screening is so important.

I’m sharing my story not only to raise awareness for colon cancer screening, but to reassure CAF members who may have gone through a similar experience that they are not alone. I went to CAF Mental Health Services during this extremely difficult time and continue to benefit from their services today. I’m so thankful for the Mental Health services provided by the CAF and to my Branch for their support.