During my treatment for rectal cancer I have just got on with the situation with regards constant diarrhoea and have only experienced stress with every appointment arriving and my concern about possible accidents during the treatments.
But now I have what will hopefully be a clinical review of where I am with my problem and possibly the way forward on the 11th January and I am wondering how I will approach the day and cope with any stress I might have building up as the day approaches.
Hi Chromeplated, I just came across your post so thought I would drop you a line.
First its good that you are having a clinical review next week as this is a step in the right direction for progress to be made in find a fix for this problem.
I have a totally different type of cancer (see my profile) but bad diarrhoea is a normal side effect due to the very very strong chemotherapy used in my treatments attacking the whole digestive system. It can be stressful and at times very embarrassing, especially when you get cough short.
I was in hospital for a few 4-5 week sessions and these were my worst times so at times I was wearing adult Incontinence pants...... not very becoming but functional. I also had issues at home but just was able to navigate my way through them....... but I am clear of this now as my body has recovered.
As for how you approach your appointment and deal with the stress..... having been on my cancer journey for over 22 years now I have developed the mind set that "my next appointment could be the one to fix this problem" and I actually looked forward to talking my issues through with my team and always looking for the next tool in the box to be used to get me back on the path again.
I wish you all the best with your appointment on Tuesday.
I was looking at the groups you have joined, could I suggest you consider joining and posting in our Bowel (colon and rectum) cancer group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis or treatment experience.
All the very best.
Hi again, where we stay in the Highlands of Scotland Telephone and Video Appointments have been part of our medical lives for many years..... way before covid came along.
Part of my treatment was done in Glasgow so having Video Appointments once a week with the Glasgow Team was far better then doing a 9hr round trip for a 15min appointment.
All the best for your review on Tuesday.
