Serving the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire of Georgia and South Carolina.
Friday, March 21, 2025
Colon cancer survivor, Brian Schomburg, an avid Georgia Bulldogs fan, celebrates his favorite college football team alongside daughter, Delaney, at Sanford Stadium at the University of Georgia in Athens.
“I'm a walking talking testimony as to why you should get your colonoscopy at the recommended age,” says 54-year-old Brian Schomburg of Savannah. “I'm the poster child for the positive outcome it can have.”
Just before turning 51, Schomburg was becoming overdue for his first colonoscopy, a medical procedure examining the inside of the colon and rectum used to detect signs of cancer. After receiving treatment for a painful bout of diverticulitis, Schomburg consulted his primary care physician, SouthCoast Health’s Dr. Adam Novack. Dr. Novack reminded him of the importance of getting a colonoscopy at his age, while adding it would also be a good opportunity to get a closer look at how bad the diverticulitis had become.
Heeding Dr. Novack’s advice, Schomburg scheduled a colonoscopy. Some polyps were removed and a biopsy eventually revealed what Schomburg didn’t want to hear. He had colorectal cancer. Thankfully, it was stage 1. The earlier colorectal cancer is detected, the more likely it can be eradicated.
“The diagnosis was obviously traumatizing,” he recalls. “First is the rollercoaster of emotions that are involved with the journey, such highs and lows of dealing with the reality of the big word cancer and the seriousness of it.”
Schomburg says he leaned heavily on his Chrisitian beliefs and faith community rallying behind him with prayer and support. “God deserves all praise for keeping me above the waves of worry and fear I could have been swept away in,” he says.
Medically, things moved swiftly. Schomburg’s gastroenterologist referred him to a surgeon who would remove the cancer. Using a robotic surgical system, the doctor wound up taking out more than three inches of Schomburg’s colon. Tests revealed the cancer was likely contained to that portion of the large intestine, and no radiation or chemotherapy was required.
Today, Schomburg receives periodic monitoring to make sure the cancer has not returned. After four years, reports continue to be clear and Schomburg remains cancer free.
When Schomburg visits Dr. Novack for his annual physicals, the patient is quick to thank his doctor for encouraging him to get that initial colonoscopy, which may have saved his life.
“I will not skip any colonoscopies in the future,” Schomburg says. “I survived and walked away the first time. I’m darn well not going to gamble again or ever. There's nothing in this world that's irreplaceable except your life.”
At the time of Schomburg’s first colonoscopy, the recommended age to begin receiving screenings was 50. In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the age to 45 due to the fact studies were showing an increase in colorectal cancer cases among people under 50. The following year, insurance coverage for colonoscopies for colorectal screening at age 45 was mandated by the government for plan or policy years beginning on or after May 31, 2022.
Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States. Research from 2019 shows that colonoscopy is associated with as much as a 69% decrease in new cases of colorectal cancer and an 88% decrease in the risk of death from it.
Your SouthCoast Health primary care provider is here to guide you in making informed choices about colorectal cancer screenings while providing comprehensive care for your well-being. Find a provider online or call 912.691.3600 to book an appointment
Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.
SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hinesville, and Statesboro.
