How do I advocate for myself after a rectal cancer diagnosis?

Hello, I was just reading through a few posts and I couldn't believe how many were similar to my situation so I thought I would share. I'm a 35 year old, mother of one, and wife. I've been healthy all my life. I've even completed several half marathons. I was just diagnosed with stage 2A rectal cancer. A couple months ago I started noticing what I thought might be blood in my stool. I got in to see my primary February 3rd. That resulted in a colonoscopy on February 6th. A mass was found and a biopsy was taken. February 10th I got the call telling me it's cancer. I had to push for an oncology referral because they wanted me to go straight to surgery. I also pushed first the surgeon to schedule all the tests and procedures I would need as soon as possible. I've had a CT, that came back clear. It couldn't even detect my tumor. Blood work has all come back good. I just had an endoscopic ultrasound performed this week. That's where I was finally able to find out the stage. I've now been referred to radiation oncology. I'm glad I pushed to get all the tests/procedures started as soon as possible. I just want to start treatment!