When Dion Crummey was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in January 2025, everything changed quickly.
“It was quite a shock. I knew right away I needed to act fast.”
He began an aggressive course of chemotherapy and radiation, hopeful it might eliminate the need for surgery. His body responded well, but surgery remained an important next step in his care.
That is when he was introduced to robotic-assisted surgery by Dr. Mo Yu Lanny Li.
“At first, I was nervous because I didn’t know much about it,” he said. “But once it was explained to me, and I heard about others who had gone through it, I felt comfortable moving forward.”
The outcome was not what he expected.
“I was amazed at how quickly I healed,” he said. “Within a couple of days, I was up and walking around.”
“The recovery is what really stood out to me,” he added. “I didn’t spend a day in bed. I just kept moving.”
He also credits the care team for the experience he had throughout the process.
“The team was incredibly supportive, friendly, and upbeat,” he said. “I remember looking around and realizing it was all women in the operating room… once I was there, I was completely at ease.”
Expanding what is possible through advanced surgical care
Colorectal cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Canada, and Newfoundland and Labrador has among the highest incidence rates in the country.
For patients, access to advanced surgical care can have a meaningful impact on outcomes, recovery, and overall quality of life.
Through the Health Care Foundation, donor support has brought robotic-assisted surgical technology to Newfoundland and Labrador. This has expanded what is possible for surgical teams and, more importantly, what patients can expect from their care.
“Anything that enhances the technical precision of surgery is good for patients,” said Dr. Amanda Fowler, Colorectal and General Surgeon, NL Health Services. “Robotic colorectal surgery allows us to perform highly precise procedures, which ultimately leads to better outcomes.”
In some cases, the enhanced precision of robotic technology allows surgeons to avoid more invasive approaches or outcomes that may otherwise be necessary.
“Robotic surgery allows us to perform precise procedures that can help patients avoid outcomes such as permanent stomas in certain cases,” said Dr. Mo Yu Lanny Li, Colorectal and General Surgeon, NL Health Services. “That is a significant advancement for patients.”
The importance of early detection
March marks Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of screening and early detection.
While advancements in surgical care are critical, early detection remains one of the most important factors in improving outcomes.
Dion is now using his experience to encourage others to take action.
“Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed. Get checked,” he said. “I thought my symptoms were something minor, but you have to take what your body is telling you seriously.”
“If you notice anything abnormal, get checked right away,” he added. “Be proactive and advocate for yourself. If nothing else, it will give you peace of mind.”
Learn more
– Information on colon cancer screening in Newfoundland and Labrador
– Robotic-assisted surgery in Newfoundland and Labrador:
- Video: Introducing the da Vinci Xi: Advancing Surgical Care Closer to Home
- News Release: Robotic-Assisted Surgery Delivering Measurable Results for Patients in Newfoundland and Labrador
