My Son Died From Colon Cancer at 30; What I Want Young People to Know

Key Points:

• Andrew Reaster, a 29-year-old UPS driver from Lawrenceville, Georgia, was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in February 2025 after experiencing persistent stomach pain, with the cancer having spread to his liver, lungs, and stomach lining.
• Despite a strong health regimen and active lifestyle, Andrew’s cancer was inoperable, requiring chemotherapy and a colostomy; his mother, Kathy Lemoine, faced the difficult decision to proceed with treatment despite the risks.
• Andrew endured intense chemotherapy and complications, ultimately passing away six months after diagnosis on August 9, 2025, after suffering significant pain and weight loss.
• Kathy Lemoine emphasizes the importance of early screening and awareness of colon cancer symptoms, especially for younger people under 45, as colon cancer is now the deadliest cancer for those under 50 but is treatable if caught early.
• To raise awareness and reduce stigma around colon cancer, Kathy restarted Andrew’s Instagram account, which quickly gained significant attention, aiming to educate others about the seriousness of the disease and encourage prompt screening.