Hello, I am 43 have a low rectal tumour. At my first meeting with my consultant I was told my only option was radio and chemo therapy to reduced the tumour, followed by surgery and a stoma bag for life! I was a big ‘blow’ as I wasn’t even expecting a cancer diagnosis as all my symptoms ticked the box of coeliac disease - which I have also been told I now have. Today I met with my oncologist and he put 2 treatment plans on the table. Treatment A being the standard 5 days radio therapy, followed by 12 weeks chemo, then surgery and a stoma fitted. Treatment B, due to my age and fitness, is 5 x 5 days of high radio therapy followed by 12 weeks chemo. In a recent trial, 53% went on to NOT need surgery or a stoma. This comes with huge side effects, the dryness of the vagina and closing of the hole, (my husband and I still have a very happy active sex life) is a massive factor for me. But also my concern is that they can not guarantee that the cancer will all be gone. They are unsure if it’s in my lymph nodes (they think it’s in one nearby). So my dilemma is do I put my body through all this radio therapy and take the chance of having a life at 43 without a stoma and all that comes with that. Or do I take the surgery and get a stoma and know the cancer is gone?? I have about 6 days to decide. I know I’ve only been offered this due to my age and fitness and am grateful but I really don’t know what to do. Has anyone done the 5x 5 days radio therapy and can share how they felt/side effects? I really don’t know what to do. They say they have to cover all side effects and I may only have some but a big factor and fear is the cancer coming back. But then it could give me 2/5 years less of a stoma. Anyone in this situation or has this experience and could share would be a great help. As my tumour is so low in my rectum, my nurse told me to Google anal cancer. Any help, advise and tips would be grateful. From a very confused 43 lady x
