Aaron’s Journey Through Colon Cancer with Covenant Health

When Aaron Clay heard the word “cancer,” he didn’t hesitate. “Whatever it takes,” he told himself. “I’m too stubborn to die. My will is way too strong to ever give up.” 

Today, a year and a half after completing treatment at Covenant Health’s Thompson Cancer Survival Center, Aaron is focused on healing, rebuilding strength, and sharing his story to empower others. 

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything 

Aaron’s cancer journey began with symptoms he couldn’t ignore. After months of feeling like something wasn’t right, he finally scheduled the colonoscopy he had postponed the year before. The results revealed a large mass in his colon. 

He remembers the moment clearly: “When they said cancer, it was like, okay — whatever it takes.” 

Aaron underwent surgery to remove the tumor, then completed six rounds of chemotherapy at Thompson Cancer Survival Center. His care team recommended a second opinion at Vanderbilt due to the unique nature of his diagnosis, and he appreciated that level of thoroughness. “They wanted their opinion backed up. There was no ego. Your well‑being is what’s important to them.” 

Care That Feels Like Family 

From the first day he walked into Thompson, Aaron felt supported. 

“You just get to know everybody. They become like family,” he said. “Faye Thompson is the first face I expect to see when I walk in. She’ll smile and say, ‘All right, baby, go ahead,’ like she’s my aunt.” 

He remembers getting sick during one visit and how calmly the team responded. “Nobody blinked. They knew exactly what to do. I leaned on their confidence.” 

His nurse navigator, Lucy Davis, made a lasting impact. “I never felt like I was bothering her. She was always there. Before I even asked, she’d say, ‘I’ll take care of it.’” 

Even other patients stepped in to support one another. One longtime patient brought treats from home and helped around the clinic on her off‑days. “For someone to devote that time, you know the place made a difference in her life. I get that now.” 

A New Perspective on Life 

Cancer changed Aaron’s mindset. “If you see cancer face-to-face, it puts everything in perspective,” he said. “The things you thought were important aren’t important. And the things that matter hold that much more gravity.” 

He’s working toward hernia‑repair surgery now—an operation he needs because the space created during his cancer surgery allowed two hernias to form. Losing more than 60 pounds is helping ensure the repair is safe and successful. “I want to feel strong again. I want to do a sit‑up. I want to get out of bed without worrying I’ll hurt myself.” 

He’s also counting down the days until he can officially be considered cancer‑free. “Right now, I’ve completed a year and a half out of five. I’m watching the clock, but I’m not waiting on life anymore.” 

Encouraging Others to Take the First Step 

Aaron knows many people — especially men — avoid routine health screenings. His advice is simple: “It’s adulting 101. You can’t ignore your internal health.” 

He hopes sharing his story helps someone else schedule the appointment they’ve been putting off. “If it helps one person, that’s enough.” 

Advanced Care, Close to Home 

Aaron’s experience reflects what Covenant Health strives for every day: expert care, advanced technology, and a team that treats every patient like family. “I never saw anyone having a bad day,” he said. “They kept their composure. They cared. You notice that.” 

Covenant Health is committed to caring for our community with strength, compassion, and excellence. If you’re due for your annual screenings or ready to take the next step for your health, schedule an appointment with a Covenant Health provider today. Early detection can save your life.