Maria Kang dedicated her career to promoting fitness, healthy eating, and wellness among mothers. Yet, despite her efforts to maintain optimal health, she faced an unexpected diagnosis of colon cancer. This experience transformed her perception of what true health entails.
In 2013, Kang gained widespread attention when a photo of her toned physique with her three young sons circulated online. The image, captioned ‘What’s your excuse?’, initiated a global discussion on fitness and motherhood. This viral moment earned her the ‘No Excuse Mom’ title and led to the creation of numerous wellness communities worldwide.
In November 2023, Kang’s life took a dramatic turn with a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis. Despite her shock, she couldn’t blame her lifestyle choices, as she maintained a healthy diet and practiced good habits. For years, Kang struggled with chronic digestive issues, including persistent constipation and bloating, which worsened under stress.
Reflecting on her past, Kang realized she had normalized her digestive problems, believing they were a part of life. She emphasized the importance of recognizing health issues rather than accepting them.
“Digestion should be like breathing,” she stated. “It should be simple, but it wasn’t.”
After doctors discovered a tumor during a colonoscopy biopsy, she initially tried holistic treatments for 12 weeks. Once no improvement occurred, she began FOLFOX, a chemotherapy regimen for gastrointestinal cancers. Following chemotherapy, a scan revealed significant tumor reduction, prompting Kang to request surgery.
She underwent extensive surgery to remove the tumor, a segment of her colon, several reproductive organs, and her appendix. She initially needed a colostomy, followed by an ileostomy. Today, Kang reports no suspicious masses detected in her MRIs but continues to receive regular screenings due to her medical history.
Colorectal Cancer Concerns
According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 158,850 Americans will receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis by 2026, with 55,230 expected fatalities in 2023. While incidence rates have decreased among older adults due to increased screenings, rates among those under 50 are rising at 2.9% annually from 2013 to 2022. The American Cancer Society and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommend screening starting at age 45.
Regardless of age, those experiencing concerning symptoms should seek medical advice. Kang highlighted the misconceptions about appearance and health, stating that even those with normal weight might harbor serious health issues.
“We don’t know what’s going on inside of a person,” she observed. “We always want to look the part versus be the part.”
Kang’s battle with cancer redefined her understanding of health and priorities in life. Her challenge illuminated what truly matters and changed her lifestyle approach.
Evolving Fitness and Nutrition Habits
Post-cancer, Kang’s fitness and nutrition habits transformed significantly. She no longer adheres to a rigid exercise schedule. Instead, she opts for activities she enjoys, such as walking and dancing.
Her views on food have evolved to embrace balance. Kang maintains a preference for fruits and vegetables while remaining open to enjoying other foods without guilt.
Her experience serves as a reminder that a healthy lifestyle doesn’t guarantee immunity from disease. Kang’s realization is both personal and universal. She stresses that health extends beyond mere appearance to include how one feels internally.
The American Cancer Society advises consulting a healthcare provider if experiencing changes in bowel habits, stool blood, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or other troubling gastrointestinal symptoms. These symptoms require evaluation, regardless of age.