my husband has just been diagnosed with colon rectal cancer. He has to have a cancerous polyp and part of his bowel removed . Because it is very low in the rectum the question is does he go for a temporary stoma or a colostomy. The reversal could be another big operation , he is nearly 80 . Has anyone had any experiences of reversals in the lower rectum . Thank you in advance we have an appointment with the stoma nurse before he has his surgery.
Hi Chezza123 and welcome to the Macmillan community and the cancer chat group.
I’m sorry to read your husband has been diagnosed with rectal cancer, and appreciate it’s a worrying time for you both. I have not had the same cancer, but do have a permanent colostomy as a result of having my rectum removed, so I don’t have experience of the reversal surgery, but I do have experience of living with permanent stomas as I’ve also had my bladder removed.
The first thing I’d like to recommend is that you join our dedicated bowel cancer support group, and the link is here
Bowel(Colon and rectal cancer) Forum
You can click on the link I’ve made to join the group in the same way you’ve joined this chat group, and make a post there to introduce yourself to connect with others who have this cancer or are caring for someone who does.
In addition, we also have a specific group for support with stomas, and this group has a dedicated section for people who have dealt with a stoma reversal. The link is here
I’m sure you will get lots of advice and support if you join both of these groups, and you’ll be able to find out others’ experiences. More people who can help you and will see your posts there, as this group you have joined is a general chat group.
The stoma nurse will also be able to answer your questions when you have your appointment. I hope everything will go well, and you’ll find it useful to be part of our community.
Sarah xx
