Colon/Bowel Cancer

Hi SEC47 

Thanks for getting in touch. My name’s Louise, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

It must be difficult to see your brother admitted to a care home with dementia and seeing a drastic downturn over the last few weeks. For him to now be diagnosed with bowel cancer must be hard.

Many people wonder about how serious a cancer diagnosis might be. As we don’t have access to medical records here on the support line, it’s difficult for us to say how serious something might be. This is because everyone is different and so the type of treatment someone may need depends on their individual diagnosis and situation.

A diagnosis is made based on results from different tests. These tests give specific information about a cancer, such as the stage and grade. The healthcare team then use this information to decide the best plan of care. These are likely the tests your brother is going for in early March.

An operation (surgery) is just one option that may be offered. If someone requires an operation they need to be well enough to be able to have the surgery and recover from it.

You mention your brother is quite frail and has lost considerable amount of weight. You also mention that his medical team has said he has not got mental capacity. When decisions are made about any treatment, factors a person’s age, frailty and mental capacity (the capacity to make certain decisions) are all considered. 

People often ask about prognosis (life expectancy) too. Again, as everyone is different it’s difficult to say. This is something you can discuss with your brother’s healthcare team. They are there to answer any questions and talk things through.

It sounds like you have a lot going on. It’s important to look after yourself too. Some people find it can help to share experiences with others in a similar situation. I can see you haven’t yet joined any groups on here. Our online community can be a great source of support for family and friends. You can also find support in your area.

It might also help to talk to us. One of our nurses would be happy to talk things through.

Best wishes

Louise

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

Ref: LR/HeP