‘Jump on it – before it jumps on you’

At 75 years of age, Bob Sanzo is enjoying retired life with his wife, Darlene, in Central City. He enjoys gardening with his three granddaughters, and hunting and fishing with his grandson.

Life is good for the former sand quarry worker.

But he’s convinced it might not be that way if not for taking a colon-cancer screening test.

At the recommendation of his family doctor during a regular checkup, Bob took an at-home colon-cancer test. He was feeling great but followed the doctor’s advice – and he’s extremely glad that he did. The test came back positive.

A subsequent colonoscopy found polyps. A biopsy determined that a very large polyp was cancerous.

“They told me the tumor was into the wall of my colon – but not through the wall,” said Bob, the father of two and grandfather of four. “I prayed that the operation I’d have would just get rid of it and save my life. But I also prayed that, if the operation was successful, that I wouldn’t have to wear a (ostomy) bag.”

The answer to both of those prayers was provided through Dr. Karleigh Curfman of the Conemaugh Health System.

“In my appointment with her, Dr. Karleigh told me, ‘Bob, I don’t care how long it takes me, I’ll do my very best.’ And she did,” he said.

The April 2023 colon resection was performed robotically, which is one of Dr. Curfman’s specialties.

“The tumor was removed, and I don’t need a bag,” Bob said. “Not only is Dr. Curfman a great doctor, she’s also a wonderful person. She visited me in the hospital several times and even called me at home. She genuinely cares about her patients.

“My prayers were answered,” he said. “And it all started with my colon-cancer test. I had no symptoms. None.

“You could say I was fortunate to find the tumor in the early stages. But good fortune has nothing to do with it. It’s all about getting tested and jumping on it – before it jumps all over you.”