I was called to a meeting on Friday.
I arrived on time having written a list of all the possible questions I could think of.
However, I only met my surgeon and the majority of the questions I had revolved around my chemotherapy. No oncologist was present but I was assured an appointment will be following soon. But to my mind another delay.
Anyway we now have a plan but frustratingly no start date.
There was some good news in that the PET scan didn't show up any further spread so I was mightily relieved about that.
I will have chemo to downstage the cancer in my rectum and liver and to 'mop up' anything not visible by the scans. Then radiotherapy,then rescan and if the chemo/radio has done it's job then surgery on my rectum (which will be quite drastic) and then surgery on my liver (again quite involved). If the chemo/radio hasn't worked...well I'll cross that bridge when I have to.
I was given some excellent advice on diet about eating lots of protein and carbs (I didn't ask if the carbs could be taken in liquid form in the shape of beer). And to do as much exercise as I could as it will all aid recovery.
I have also received good advice about listening to my body. There are times when I feel asolutely exhausted but I have to remind myself that I am ill and not Superman.
Next step appointment with my oncologist.
Thanks for listening
