NEWBIE - How I am feeling one year post treatment for vaginal cancer

I have a history of cancer (hysterectomy plus tubes and ovaries removed in 2011), had VAIN cells removed regularly in the following years and was then diagnosed with vaginal cancer in August 2022. I had the tumour removed and commenced radiotherapy and chemotherapy in early November, completing on 23 December 2022. Due to pain and discomfort I was unable to use the vaginal dilators, my oncologist confirmed excessive scar tissue build up over the years was the cause. She confirmed I did not need to continue with this, she would examine me via scans for future check ups. I now find myself one year post treatment, having had the all clear via scan for the third time. I’ll be getting checked 3/4 monthly for a few years.

My problem is three fold. My treatment has also affected my bowels (scar tissue at rectum) so I am in a permanent state of ibs. I feel tired and lethargic all the time. I have also gained nearly 2 stone in a year and suffer from continual bloating and gas.  Oncologist is not concerned by any of this, advising me to change my diet and exercise more.  I have no energy to exercise and changing my diet has not helped.

I am depressed, not because of the cancer, but because of the side effects. I feel fat, old (62), frumpy, sorry for myself, tired and frightened to eat out of the house in case of accidents.

Thanks for listening. I really just needed to rant ……..