Stage IV Colon Cancer Survivor Thrives Five Years On

Becky Grubb credits the CU Anschutz Cancer Center's multidisciplinary care and clinical trials - plus a 'huge village' of support - for her quality of life.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:36am

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A translucent, X-ray-style photograph revealing the intricate structure of a human colon, with a faint glow highlighting the presence of a cancerous tumor, conveying the medical challenges and personal triumph of a stage IV colorectal cancer survivor.A cancer survivor's resilience shines through in the ghostly X-ray of her once-ailing colon.Denver Today

Becky Grubb was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer in 2021, just months after giving birth to her second child. Despite the grim prognosis, Grubb has thrived for five years thanks to the care she received at the CU Anschutz Cancer Center, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Grubb credits her dedicated care team and a strong support network of family and friends for helping her maintain an active lifestyle while managing the challenges of her treatment.

Why it matters

Grubb's story highlights the importance of early detection and advocacy in fighting colorectal cancer, especially among younger patients. The rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults remain a medical mystery, underscoring the need for updated screening guidelines and increased awareness of symptoms.

The details

In May 2021, Grubb underwent a colonoscopy that revealed a stage IV colorectal cancer diagnosis, despite repeatedly testing negative for gastrointestinal issues during and after her recent pregnancy. Her best friend urged her to seek a second opinion at the CU Anschutz Cancer Center, where Dr. Wells Messersmith devised a comprehensive treatment plan. Grubb underwent lung surgery, multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and an ovarian transposition procedure to preserve her fertility. She has also participated in an immunotherapy clinical trial, though it was ultimately discontinued due to heart complications. Despite the challenges, Grubb has maintained an active lifestyle, working full-time and keeping up with her young children's activities.

  • In May 2021, Grubb underwent a colonoscopy that revealed her stage IV colorectal cancer diagnosis.
  • A couple months after her diagnosis, Grubb underwent lung surgery to remove tumors.
  • Grubb has been on a KRAS inhibitor pill form of treatment for about two months.

The players

Becky Grubb

A 45-year-old stage IV colorectal cancer survivor who has thrived for five years thanks to the care she received at the CU Anschutz Cancer Center.

Wells Messersmith, MD

A professor in the Division of Medical Oncology at the CU Anschutz School of Medicine and Grubb's oncologist, who devised a comprehensive treatment plan for her.

John Mitchell, MD

A cardiothoracic surgeon at the CU Anschutz Cancer Center who performed Grubb's lung surgery to remove tumors.

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What they’re saying

“Get yourself to UCHealth right now - right now.”

— Becky Grubb's best friend, Anesthesiologist in St. Louis

“I joke that Dr. Messersmith speaks Becky.”

— Becky Grubb

“Even in cases where we can't cure you, we can turn this into more of a chronic disease, like diabetes or hypertension.”

— Wells Messersmith, MD, Professor, Division of Medical Oncology, CU Anschutz School of Medicine

What’s next

Grubb will continue to work closely with her care team at the CU Anschutz Cancer Center to monitor her condition and explore new treatment options, including clinical trials, as they become available.

The takeaway

Grubb's story demonstrates the importance of early detection, patient advocacy, and access to multidisciplinary, cutting-edge cancer care. Her perseverance and positive attitude, combined with the support of her medical team and loved ones, have been instrumental in her ability to thrive for five years with stage IV colorectal cancer.