Anal cancer and stoma

Hi sorry to read this, before I was diagnosed with Anal cancer, a few years leading up to the cancer they said I had haemorrhoids, and severe constipation  I had a few colonoscopies, there is a lot of people on here that was also told they had Haemorrhoids before being diagnosed with anal cancer, iv always thought there has got to be something in it, just my opinion!!

I was T4 N1 locally advanced Anal cancer ended up with a stoma  for life also had a parastomal hernia which I had fixed last year, so far all is ok and not come back. 

It must of been a big shock waking up to a stoma, I didn’t want mine and they told me it was best to have before starting treatment as it wouldn’t be good having to have it in the middle of the treatment.

For me it had become a god send and given me a better quality of life. 

I’m 4 year in remission now 

I wish you well 

Laura x x

Hello Maddog1961 

Your story is all too familiar, sadly.  Many people on the forum were told the same thing, haemorrhoids, and that is what their GP treated for.  Meantime the pain they were experiencing as more and more symptoms and pain, consequently treatment was delayed.  I am so pleased that the locum doctor was on the ball and referred you straight away; I am not surprised you were in shock, who has a haemorrhoid checked out and a couple of days later comes out with a stoma?

I am sorry that the counselling hasn't helped but I would urge you to see your GP about your anxiety and mental health.  You have had quite a trauma in your life and it sounds as if you need further referrals.

It is wonderful news that you have been given the all-clear and I wish you the very best of luck if you decide to go ahead with the reversal.  I have a stoma but not a hernia which I understand can cause lots of problems so if the surgeon can deal with that at the same time it would be a huge bonus.

Please let us know how you get on.

Big hug

Irene xx