Post Op Chemo

  • 5 replies
  • 49 subscribers
  • 910 views

Hi / I have had major bladder cancer operation where my bladder and other parts were removed during 8 hours of surgery! The cancer was also in my lymph glands. Since the operation I haven’t felt very well, and this is not helped by bowel problems of fairly constant leaking. The medics have suggested I should also begin chemo soon, and immune therapy.  Does anyone have any advise or similar experiences to share with me. To be honest, I am left wondering whether I can cope with the chemo, not least as I unfortunately had an stroke, shoulder and hip break all within the last 24 months.  I am 82, I have always been healthy otherwise and have a positive outlook and a loving family. Thanks for reading. 

  • Hi LiseB,Welcome to this friendly group.How long ago did you have your surgery ? It does take time to recover from a cystectomy,it’s such a big operation.I felt tired,weak and sick with various aches and pains after mine.You should start feeling better over time.Try to walk/shuffle a bit if you can as that will help the bowels.Don’t worry if you don’t feel that hungry.I ate small amounts often.I found bread too filling but I could manage sandwich thins with cheese or meat.Are you still on the low fibre diet ? I introduced more variety in food over the weeks and built up to larger meals like jacket potatoes.Keep up your fluids even if you just sip throughout the day.I got a lot of anal leaking after the surgery.When I joined this board I found others that had this after their surgery too.I built up my walking gradually.If I did too much I would feel sick so listen to your body.I didn’t have chemo or immune treatment but I’m sure someone will be along to offer some advice.There is plenty of support here so I hope you will find the group helpful.Happy Christmas and best wishes for a good recovery.Jane

  • Thank you for your reply winkers60. Much appreciated. I had my operation on 18 Oct. So a bit of time ago now. I think it’s the suggestion of having chemo now that is a worry ! Happy Christmas you too. 

  • Hi LiseB,You are still early in your recovery.I had improved a lot after 3 months but by 8 months I felt much better.Most people find recovery is slow.I’m sorry to hear you have had a stroke and some fractures.Not easy to go through,strokes are so tiring for the body.The board is quiet because of Christmas but there will be someone here who can tell you more about the other treatments.I can understand your worry over chemo while you are still trying to recover.Best wishes Jane 

  • My husband had radical cystectomy ; has now got a neo bladder the surgery was on 4th October we found out recently that it had spread to lymph nodes.  Although they remove he is going to have chemotherapy.  ?? Any advice?

    Kimdav

  • LiseB. We were told for every hour of surgery it Is 1 month recovery.  Be kind to yourself, as you have another 6 months. To go xxc

    Kimdav