Hi Everyone
I am new to this forum. I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in May 2021 and have been through 5 weeks of radiotherapy followed by 18 weeks (6 cycles) of chemotherapy and am now waiting for surgery. I had my pre-operative assessment yesterday so I expect to be operated on quite soon.
I saw the surgeon yesterday he said I had to choice between a colostomy and an ileostomy. I don't have to decide until the day before the operation. Today I had a call from a specialist stoma nurse who gave me a lot of information about the difference between a permanent and a temporary stoma. But what would really help me is some input from someone who has had either of these procedures and can tell me a bit about what it is really like living with a stoma bag. What difference does it make to your quality of life?
I am a 72 year old woman, living alone and with no close family who before cancer was fit and active and before covid was really enjoying my retirement - taking 2 or 3 holidays abroad each year as well as visiting my flat in Cyprus twice a year. I would really like to get my old life back so a big factor in my decision is going to be how much either a colostomy or an ileostomy is going to impact on my ability to do that.
Any help or advice - positive or negative - would be gratefully received.
Good luck Limassol
its great to hear that you’ve made your decision and you’re booked in. I hope all goes well. Please keep us updated when you’re feeling up to it.
Ann
Hi Limassol
Sending all best wishes for your surgery on Monday and hope that you will be able to resume your travelling in time. Take care and look after yourself.
