After putting it off for years, Bob McClure finally had his first colonoscopy at age 53. The screening helps detect colorectal cancer, and even though Bob had a family history of the disease, he had some fear of the procedure and delayed it for years. He finally agreed to move forward after the urging of his primary care doctor, Diana C. Hodarnau, M.D., a Broward Health Physician Group physician.

“We recommend that patients at average risk start screening at age 45, and those with higher risk should start even earlier,” said Dr. Hodarnau. “With colorectal cancer rates rising in younger adults, it’s more important than ever to get screened and to talk to your doctor if you’re noticing changes in your bowel habits or experiencing symptoms like unexplained weakness.”

Bob's colonoscopy was performed at Broward Health Imperial Point in early 2025 by Howard D. Lewkowitz, M.D., a gastroenterologist with the Broward Health Physician Group. During the procedure, doctors found a large mass that was diagnosed as stage 2 colon cancer.

“It affected me pretty badly at first. It took me a long time to say out loud that I had cancer,” Bob said. “I didn't want to admit it to myself or tell any friends. Fortunately, my mom was with me the whole way. She is a colon cancer and double breast cancer survivor and one of the strongest women I've ever met.”

After his diagnosis, Bob was referred to Felice De Stefano, M.D., a colorectal surgeon with the Broward Health Physician Group. After reviewing Bob's case, Dr. De Stefano recommended a partial colectomy.

“Colectomy is the most common surgery for colon cancer and involves removing either all or part of the colon,” explained Dr. De Stefano. “Bob was a good candidate for a partial colectomy using robotic minimally invasive technology, which allows us to make smaller incisions. This can mean less pain, faster recovery and smaller scars.”

Bob had his surgery at Broward Health Medical Center on June 5, 2025.

“I'm very happy that I decided to have the procedure at this hospital,” Bob said. “The technology minimized scarring, and the care was exceptional. Dr. De Stefano is a rock star. The nursing staff and everyone who took care of me were just absolutely incredible. I couldn't ask for a better team.”

After he recovered, Bob began follow-up care with hematology oncologist Alan Grosset, M.D., also with the Broward Health Physician Group. His monitoring includes a personalized blood test called molecular residual disease (MRD) testing, which helps detect any signs of cancer returning. Bob says his tests show he is currently 100% clear of cancer, and he is retested every two months.

After everything he has been through, Bob wants others to understand how important screening is.

“It's very, very important that you get it done,” Bob said. “I waited too long. If I had had a colonoscopy three or four years sooner, we might have caught my condition before it got so bad. It's a simple procedure. You're asleep the whole time, and when you wake up, you don't feel anything.”

“Looking back, I see that getting screened absolutely saved my life,” he added.

Life is returning to normal for Bob, and he says it feels amazing. He's back to playing golf, spending time with his family and enjoying the beach he loves.

“I live on Fort Lauderdale Beach, and I spend most of my time here,” Bob said. “It's been wonderful getting out and seeing my friends again.”

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