I'm 22. For over one year I have been having intermittent rectal bleeding that starts at random times, not accompanied by a bowel movement. I obviously thought of bowel cancer right away as anyone would, but dismissed it as likely being hemorrhoids/fissures due to being so young, and I was concerned about the 'embarrassment' in going to the doctor. I didn't want to seem hysterical by going to the doctors and mentioning cancer for what was statistically most likely to be a standard issue. Anyway, the bleeding has progressively been getting worse and this past week I have had a huge bleed that soaked through my underwear whilst in bed and I finally decided it was time to get checked out. I've had virtually no pain anywhere in my stomach or going to the toilet, other than recently I have had a painful cervix and intense nausea after any sexual experiences, but I assumed that was unrelated. To my surprise, the doctor said he could not feel any haemorrhoids other than one that was long since healed and formed a skin tag. They have said that I likely have cancer (one of either bowel. ovarian or cervical), and I am awaiting the results from my FIT test, and waiting to be seen for a CA125 blood test and an abdo/pelvic ultrasound. I feel so stupid for not getting seen sooner. They said there is a chance that it is 'just' colitis, but my nan passed away from chrons/colitis + cancer complications and I am close with people who have Chrons and their quality of life is poor.
I am also Autistic, and this is really distressing me. The waiting for the results feels so painful. I haven't had my ultrasound appointment yet, and I feel so stressed waiting for that and I am constantly checking my GP portal to see if my FIT test results have come back yet.
I also have two young children and I am so scared of how I am meant to look after them with any of the possible conditions.
Hi birdandbear and welcome to the Online Community although I am sorry to see you joining us and to hear about your ongoing diagnoses. The cancer diagnosis process can be such a stressful and challenging time but when it comes to support there is nothing better than talking with others who are on the exact same cancer and treatment journey.
The Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) so once you know your exact diagnosis you may consider joining our Bowel (colon and rectum) cancer, Cervical cancer or Ovarian cancer groups. These will be safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you are ready to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link(s) I have created above. Once the group page opens click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go. You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
Macmillan have many support services so do check out the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. These services provide cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Give me a shout if you need further help.
All the very best.
