After 1st being diagnosed with rectal cancer last September (24) and a regime of radiotherapy +chemo and then CAPOX Chemo going from January til June my OH was signed off with the oncologist and passed back to the surgical team.
We have now had a meeting with Surgeon yesterday
After being told OH had a very good response to radiotherapy & chemo the Tumour in the bowel has been reduced to just fibrous tissue but there is still some in one of his lymph nodes.
if it hadn’t still been in lymph he would have been offered watch & wait HOWEVER because there is still a bit in the lymph they are recommending APR surgery.
We always knew this will be an option but now it’s a reality it’s hit us both today like a ton of bricks.
Fortunately the surgeon has agreed to delay until after a family wedding in September (mid august was mentioned) so we have time to adjust and get our heads around it.
Can all you lovely peeps out there tell us your hints & tips for dealing with APR and getting used to a stoma.
Thank you
Bx
Hi Bella12
I am sorry that you have not yet had a response to your question but sometimes it can take a little while.
Hopefully by me replying it will bring it to the attention of someone who has had a APR and has had experience of a stoma.
I am pleased that your OH has shown a good response to the chemo and radiotherapy and can understand that it must have been hard to be told that there would be a need for further treatment.
I hope that the wedding goes well next month and during the time you both are able to adjust and prepare for the surgery.
This link has some general information that may help until you get a reply.
Hopefully you soon get a reply from someone who can offer some more specific advice but in the meantime we are here if you need us.
The Support Line is also there if you feel like you would like to talk things through with someone. They are there from 8am-8pm daily.
Jane
