Travis Bowe | Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Meet Travis Bowe, a proud Wisconsinite, husband, and survivor—sharing his story as part of our Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month spotlight series. His journey reminds us why self-advocacy (and a little loving pressure from a spouse) can be life-saving.
Travis was just shy of his 35th birthday when he was diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer. Like many young adults facing early-onset colorectal cancer, his symptoms were subtle and easily dismissed. In his case, it was intermittent blood in his stool—something his doctor repeatedly attributed to hemorrhoids.
“I’m sure it was because of my age, though he never admitted so. But when things weren’t improving, I kept pushing. I have to give a lot of credit to my wife, Alyssa, for keeping on me and making sure I didn’t brush it off. Because, in typical male fashion, I definitely would have otherwise.”
Eventually, Travis underwent a colonoscopy, which revealed a cancerous tumor. The diagnosis was a shock—but also a wake-up call.
After meeting with his oncologist, gathering second opinions, and mapping out treatment options, Travis learned he was a candidate for immunotherapy. The treatment plan didn’t require surgery or radiation—something he remains deeply grateful for. In February of this year, Travis celebrated one year of being NED (No Evidence of Disease).
“I may never be completely out of the woods since I have Lynch Syndrome, but I’m grateful for each new day. I know how lucky I am.”
For Travis, survivorship means showing up for others, especially the brothers in this community who are still in the thick of it.
“I’ll always support my brothers who are facing a harder road. As a survivor, I feel it’s the least I can do.”
Travis isn’t exactly sure how he first stumbled across Man Up to Cancer, but he’s glad he did.
“It’s such a wonderful find. I enjoy following others’ stories and offering support when I can. Man Up to Cancer gives men an outlet to speak their mind and HOWL. It’s slowly defeating the stigma that men have to be ‘tough guys’ and just deal with it. I’m proud to be a part of this group and look forward to being in it for years to come.”
Travis now embraces every day with gratitude, surrounded by his biggest supporters—his wife Alyssa and their sweet pup Rory. The road hasn’t been easy, but with love, community, and persistence, he's writing a powerful new chapter.
