Bill Thach | Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
This Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we’re honored to spotlight Bill Thach—a relentless warrior, advocate, and source of strength for others in the Man Up to Cancer community. Hailing from Katy, Texas, Bill has been fighting Stage IV Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Rectum since November 2018 and is currently in his ninth line of treatment. His journey is one of resilience, advocacy, and finding purpose even in the hardest moments.
Q: Can you share details about your diagnosis (stage, how long you’ve been fighting, etc.)?
A: Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Rectum, Stage 4. I was diagnosed in November 2018 and am still undergoing treatment, which will continue for the rest of my life. I’ve been through nine lines of treatment, including an 18-hour surgery back in 2021, a liver ablation three months after that, four clinical trials, and additional treatment lines.
Q: What prompted you to get screened for colorectal cancer?
A: Blood in my stool.
Q: What do you wish you could tell others after your experience?
A: Listen to your body and advocate for yourself. Your physician isn’t always right—don’t allow their dismissive actions to stop you from pushing for a second opinion.
Q: How did you discover Man Up to Cancer? What has your experience been in the group?
A: I was doing labs at MD Anderson and a person approached me while I was waiting for my EKG with a flyer about Man Up to Cancer. I held onto it for about six months before I finally looked into it and found the Facebook group. I was a lurker at first, just reading and observing. Then I learned about an event called the Gathering of Wolves. I attended for the first time last year, and it opened my eyes to what I had been missing—having support from other men and the chance to help and serve men who are in the same situation.
Q: What do you think is the biggest stigma men face when it comes to cancer?
A: That they can handle it on their own. That they don’t need to express their fears and insecurities. That they’re not allowed to be vulnerable.
Q: What has been your favorite memory or experience with MUTC members so far?
A: The campfire where we honor the memories of the members who have completed their journey and passed. It’s incredibly moving.
