Jordan McConahay: A Voice for Advocacy and Action

When Jordan McConahay, 29, of Rolla, visited the Phelps Health Walk-In Clinic in April 2025, the young wife and mother thought she was dealing with a simple “stomach bug.” But this visit began a journey that was anything but simple.

She had put off going in, hoping the persistent stomach pain would ease on its own. But 3 days with no improvement convinced her to go. After discussing her symptoms and running initial tests, the provider recommended she go to the Phelps Health Emergency Department for a CT scan, just to be sure there wasn’t a more serious cause.

Shortly after the scan, Phelps Health General and Bariatric Surgeon Donny Roshan, DO, explained the findings. The imaging revealed a suspicious mass on her colon, as well as concerning spots on her lungs. Jordan was admitted to the Hospital for additional scans and a biopsy (a procedure that collects a small tissue sample for testing). 

The results were devastating.

“It was stage four colorectal cancer,” she said—her voice composed, but edged with emotion. “And it had spread from my colon to my liver and lungs.”

Only 28 at the time, Jordan was diagnosed with a cancer that typically isn’t screened for until age 45. She’d had no warning signs, no additional symptoms and no family history of this type of cancer—just 3 days of stomach pain.

In May, Jordan began her first round of chemotherapy at the Delbert Day Cancer Institute (DDCI). She has since completed 19 rounds and will continue some form of chemotherapy for the rest of her life. The treatment hasn’t been easy.

“It takes a toll on you,” she shared. “People hear ‘chemo’ and think you’ll be sick for a few days, but it’s so much more. It’s also body aches and just days upon days of not feeling well. And it affects you mentally. It’s very much a head game—you have to be in the right space to show up and fight.” 

Despite chemo’s challenges, Jordan has found compassion, care and support at the DDCI in Medical Oncologist Kan Huang, MD, PhD, MS; nurse practitioners Logan Shockley, FNPC, AOCNP and Becky Witham, FNPC, AOCNP; the nursing staff and even other patients, who understand and share her uncertainty about the future. 

“Going to the DDCI is honestly one of the best things, which sounds kind of silly coming from someone who has cancer,” she said. “But when you’re diagnosed, you know certain things are coming—chemotherapy, possibly radiation—and you have so many questions. Dr. Huang, the nurses and everybody at the DDCI have been great about answering them.”

Jordan describes her cancer fight as a rollercoaster and a constant challenge that requires focus, determination and presence. While some days are better than others, she often faces weeks with more hard days than easy ones. 

“When I’m having a hard day, the nurses can tell,” she said. “They bring me tissues and remind me that it’s okay to have bad days.”

Jordan also relies on MyChart, which allows her to communicate with her care team on days when she doesn’t feel well. The app makes it easier to report symptoms, ask questions or adjust appointment times without added stress.

“It’s nice for the days that I don’t feel up to making a phone call,” she added. “I can just send a message through the app.”

In the early months of her treatment, the Phelps Health Foundation stepped in to support Jordan and her family. By covering utility bills and other essential expenses, the Foundation allowed her to focus on her health instead of financial challenges. 

“The Foundation has been tremendous for my family,” she said. “I’m blessed to have that support system. After I was diagnosed, so many worries raced through my mind. They lifted that burden.”

Bolstered by the Foundation and her care team, Jordan has found strength and a new sense of purpose. Over the past year, she has become a vocal advocate for colorectal cancer awareness, especially highlighting the realities of the disease for young adults, as rates continue to rise nationwide among those considered too young for screening.

“If something doesn’t feel right, listen to your body,” she emphasized. “Advocate for yourself. Get a colonoscopy. Do whatever you have to do to make sure you’re in the best health you can be in.”

In March of 2026, Jordan and her family organized the 2026 Colorectal Cancer Awareness Walk in Rolla, which raised $2,150 to benefit the Phelps Health Foundation. These funds will directly support other local patients.

Although treatment remains a central part of her life, Jordan continues to fight, using her story to help others feel seen, supported and empowered. Though the future remains uncertain, she approaches each day with courage, grace and determination.