Lexington Resident Promotes Colon Cancer Awareness

A local cancer survivor is using a giant inflatable display to urge residents to prioritize their colorectal health.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Cancer

Anatomically-inspired educational tunnel sculpture placed on a suburban residential driveway, highlighting health awareness in Lexington. — Lexington resident Alex Herring is using a large-scale colon model in his driveway to promote colorectal cancer screening awareness in Kentucky. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Are you planning to schedule a cancer screening after learning about early-onset symptoms?

Lexington resident Alex Herring is using a 10-foot-by-13-foot inflatable colon display in his driveway to raise awareness about early-onset colorectal cancer. After being diagnosed with the disease at age 34, Herring now works to encourage public screening.

Why it matters

Kentucky currently experiences some of the highest rates of colon cancer in the United States. Herring’s display serves as a local visual prompt to highlight the importance of early detection and routine screenings for colorectal health.

Kentucky reports some of the highest colon cancer rates in the United States according to state-level surveillance. While routine screening is generally recommended starting at age 45, the impact of grassroots awareness campaigns on diagnostic outcomes is not yet quantified.

The players

Alex Herring

A 38-year-old cancer survivor and founder of the non-profit Help Kentucky who advocates for early screening.

Help Kentucky

A non-profit organization focused on promoting health awareness and disease screening across the state.

The details

The inflatable exhibit provides a physical walkthrough that demonstrates how colon polyps and tumors develop, aiming to demystify the screening process. Herring, who was diagnosed at age 34, founded the non-profit Help Kentucky to reach younger adults who may not realize the disease can affect those under the standard screening age of 45.

Alex Herring was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022.
The inflatable display was presented to the public on October 24-25, 2026.

Health Landscape

Colorectal cancer screening guidelines generally center on the age 45 threshold to capture most risk. Herring’s initiative illustrates a broader shift in clinical concern toward early-onset cases that fall outside typical screening recommendations.

If you are under 45 and have concerns about digestive health, it is worth discussing family history and early screening options with your primary care physician. Understanding the symptoms of colorectal cancer is a proactive step regardless of whether you have reached the standard screening age.

The takeaway

Colon cancer can affect younger adults, making it vital to recognize persistent digestive symptoms regardless of age. Start a conversation with your doctor about your specific risk factors and when you should begin routine screenings.