I had my MRI scan on Tuesday and the surgeon asked me to call in for a chat on Wednesday, to discuss the next steps.
The full results are not available, as the radiologist wants a little more time to discuss an area in my rectum.
The good news is the treatment has been very effective and my very large anal and rectum tumour has possibly almost disappeared. There is a small area on the scan that is slightly thicker and has some inflammation and edema, maybe scar tissue, but possibly cancer.
So the plan, radiologists will review further and write a report. This should be available in the next 48 hours. The surgeon wants to do another colonoscopy, he has booked me into his department and he will personally take the biopsies. He will arrange for me to see a urologist as the tumour was pressing up against one of my ureters and has caused a stricture. The cancer may have invaded, but he feels hopefull this is not the case.
He booked my admission immediately, so I have a two day stay on the 23rd and 24th.
We had a long chat about the surgery options and he has provisionally booked the robot to do surgery on the 4th December. If required the surgery is going to be tough, but I am fully informed and mentally prepared for this next battle.
I am feeling fantastic, the autumn weather is beautiful, so cancer is going on the back burner for now.
Wishing everybody the very best day.
Ally xx
Hello Ally,
Great news that the large tumour has almost disappeared. That’s a great response to treatment and I very much hope that the thickened area turns out to be scar tissue. I know that’s been the case for many of us at the 3 month mark.
It’s also good that your scan results are being reviewed in detail and that the rest of the results will be available so quickly. Very impressive compared to the waiting times in the uk. Your team and sound amazing and despite everything you are going through, it seems that you are in very good hands.
Of course I am absolutely hoping that the colonoscopy and biopsies don’t show any spread. Rooting for you.
You sound wonderfully positive and it’s good that you are feeling so well.
Wishing you well for the results and next steps.
xx
Thank you PEB24, hoping it's scary tissue.
Everything is quick here and at first I thought it was a reflection of my medical status. It's not, it's just how the system works. No layers of admin, waiting for letters and test results. Doctors will directly answer your calls and appointments within days.
The slight downside is the travelling to private specialist hospitals and the lack of aftercare when you leave hospital.
My partner has administered injections, supported me with my stoma and he will be my nurse at home, if I do have the op. I couldn't do it alone and it's not for the faint hearted.
If I take ill at home my nearest state hospital is not fit for purpose, so 90 minutes drive and no ambulance available.
I hope we have made the right decision to stay abroad and only time will tell.
Ally xx
Hi AllyL ,
It sounds as though you’ve had a great response to the treatment & hopefully the biopsies will be negative & just scar tissue. There’s been many people through this group in my time here that have had EUA’s, it’s not what we’d choose but it’s a necessity to give you peace of mind isn’t it?
You sound as though you’re in a good headspace & are mentally preparing for every eventuality. I do hope it’s good news for you.
You’re in my thoughts & I'm sending loads of positive thoughts your way.
Nicola
Hi Ally,
I think scary tissue is pretty accurate!
It must be challenging being so far away from the treating hospital. On the other hand, when you do get there the care sounds impressive. It’s wonderful that your partner has been so supportive and willing to learn how to assist you too.
Obviously hoping that you don’t need the op but as Nikki65 says it sounds as though you’re mentally preparing yourself for all eventualities.
Stay strong xx
Thank you for the support Nicola.
I think the biopsies are a positive thing. I would be left wondering if it is cancer cells, until it maybe appeared on my next scan.
Even if my treatment is not 100 percent, it's almost cleared an anal/rectal tumour measuring 11cm.
If surgery is required, hopefully better margins and less chance of reoccurancre.
Fingers crossed either way.
Ally xx
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007