New treatment

Hi Mrd1967 . We have had a few members here in this group on this treatment but it seems to be fairly new for bladder cancer. It is used widely across the board for many other cancers. Hopefully someone with experience will be along to offer any insight. Best wishes.

I’ve had this for MIBC. Had four cycles, just finished last one and have had my post-chemo scan but no results yet. Seeing oncologist next week. Expect long days in the chemo suite!

Hi Mrd1967. I’ve now seen my oncologist who tells me my recent scan demonstrates an excellent response to treatment (gemcitabine, cisplatin and Durvalumab) with improving appearances of the bladder primary. So now I‘m awaiting surgery: radical cystectomy. Can’t say I’m looking forward to this but the urology team think this is the best way forward for a curative outcome.

have you started your chemotherapy yet?

Hi DorisDog,Good to hear you have had a positive response to treatment.There is plenty of advice and support here when it comes to your cystectomy.If you have time to get yourself as fit as possible beforehand that will help.Best wishes Jane 

Hi Jane, (I’m a Jane too)  I’m on the Fit4Surgery programme as well as seeing a Personal Trainer every week and doing Parkrun (I walk this). So feeling reasonably fit. I know I’ll feel as weak as a kitten after the surgery. I’m not going to enjoy the recovery phase

That is brilliant and should aid your recovery.Have you got someone who can be around to help out for the first few days when you come home ? You will feel very tired and probably weak too but strength and energy pick up over time.Jane 

Dear DorisDog,

Personally it was the Gem/Cis that took most out of me, in fact I cut down my daily walks and Pilates quite a lot by the end. I managed to recover fairly quickly after the bladder removal, though. I made sure I did all the post op exercises on the ward - never saw any other patients doing any - sailed through the physio review and got out as soon as possible. If you click on my name you'll see I had to help my husband recover from a heart attack and bypass at the same time (helped by family) so I didn't have a lot of time to lie back and eat grapes. I was pleased it helped me get back to normal quite quickly. Looking back I was a bit over-cautious re rebuilding my core strength. When the time comes I can point you towards what to do.

All the best,

Latestart

Hi Jane, yes, got a supportive partner who will help me over the first few days. I do love to cook so it’s gonna be hard to relinquish that. Although, I guess, I may not fancy eating much. I am scheduled to have robotic surgery and have to admit to being pretty scared at the thought of the procedure and life afterwards. 

Hi Latestart, I managed to get through the chemo & immuno without losing much strength or stamina. I really want to make a swift recovery without overdoing it. Will be in touch when it comes to building up my core strength. Would be good to get some guidance from you.

It’s natural to feel scared,I was.The surgery was not as bad as I expected.My history is on my profile,I don’t miss my bladder at all.
Robotic surgery is usually quicker than general and you will have a few small scars.You may not feel hungry post op but you should be able to cook once you feel up to it.A few of us on here have been through this op and can answer questions and offer support and advice to get you through it.Jane