Kansas City, KS – Two people facing stage four cancer are opening up about the realities of living with a life-threatening diagnosis, including the difficult decisions, emotional challenges and unexpected moments of humor along the way. Kansas City journalist Matt Stewart and Dying Out Loud podcast creator Kris Siam share their deeply personal experiences with cancer, from navigating treatment as a family to preparing loved ones for an uncertain future. Their oncologist at The University of Kansas Cancer Center also discusses the alarming rise in colorectal cancer among younger adults, the importance of early detection and advances in cancer research.
Matt Stewart, Living with Stage Four Colorectal Cancer
Matt was initially diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2020, but four years later learned the disease had spread to his brain, lungs, spine and lymph nodes.
He discusses undergoing chemotherapy every two weeks, radiation and additional treatment while hoping new therapies and clinical trials will provide more options.
He shares the unusual experience of both he and his wife Chrissy, undergoing cancer treatment, sometimes on consecutive days, while raising their three children.
He explains how Chrissy's experience with cancer helped prepare him for his own diagnosis and changed his understanding of what patients need from caregivers.
He discusses his fear of missing important family milestones and how humor, faith and finding joy in everyday moments help him face an uncertain future.
Kris Siam, Recently Passed from Stage Four Colorectal Cancer and was the Creator of the Dying Out Loud Podcast
Kris was first diagnosed with stage three colon cancer at age 38 and remained free of detectable disease for 10 years before learning the cancer had spread to his lungs.
He discusses his recent decision to pause additional chemotherapy after years of treatment, choosing to prioritize quality of life and time with loved ones.
He shares how writing 74 deeply personal letters to important people in his life inspired the Dying Out Loud podcast.
He explains why openly discussing death, grief and difficult emotions can help patients and families feel more connected and prepared.
He shares his hopes for the legacy he will leave behind and encourages people to tell those they love how much they matter while they still have the opportunity.
Kris passed October 2026.
Dr. Raed Al-Rajabi, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncologist, The University of Kansas Cancer Center
Dr. Al-Rajabi discusses the rise in colorectal cancer among younger adults and why researchers are still working to understand what's driving the increase.
He explains why symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool and persistent gastrointestinal problems should not be ignored, even in younger patients.
He discusses the importance of colorectal cancer screening, genetic testing and patients advocating for further evaluation when symptoms persist.
He describes how advances in molecular testing, targeted treatments and clinical trials are helping researchers identify new options for patients with advanced colorectal cancer.
He emphasizes the importance of patients finding a medical team they trust and making treatment decisions that reflect their individual goals and quality of life.