Life expectancy

Dear Scorp111278, people live for decades after bladder cancer treatment. Especially if it has not spread outside the bladder. And from what I've read on here, if it was to get to the point of bladder removal it does cure the cancer. That's why some people choose that even over surgeons/oncologists offering more conservative treatments. And while you may not have told your daughter about your current concerns they do pick up vibes, even if the stupid film was a trigger for the outright tears. 

Did you try the Macmillan live chat?

Best wishes, 

Denby

Well done for steering clear of google, although reputable sites like this one & Cancer Research UK will at least give you reliable information. However, the statistics they give can be hard to interpret. The earlier BC is caught, the more likely it is that it can be cured. I am now 11 years since diagnosis. Statistics often don't go beyond 10 years, 20 years at most, because older people with cancer may well have died of something else & therefore the data is not available. So yes, it is possible for you to be cured of BC and live a long life, but alas there are no guarantees in life. 

It's not uncommon for children to start being fearful when they realise that everyone grows old & dies eventually. I can recall that worry, as well as telling my Mum I was going to grow up & live next door. Only you can assess her understanding, but I think it is generally best to be as honest as possible, so when the time is right  eg say that there is a small problem, but that the doctors are looking after you.

Do you have any local friends/ family that you can turn to for support? Choose wisely if you can, someone who will be calm & reliable. Very best wishes & keep talking here, if nowhere else.

Thank you

Hi

How long is a piece of string? Life expectancy is increasing on a regular basis. Well done for staying away from Dr Google, if you need facts help etc, this site is very reliable. The rule of thumb is that if the cancer comes back it normally happens within the first two years. However, every case is different and if there is a recacurance that doesn't mean it can't be treated.

Now, moving on, every clear day since your treatment increases your life expectancy, so put things behind you rather looking at potential hurdles ahead. I was diagnosed five years ago and had a radical cystectomy and I'm doing fine. The early days are the worse because there is a learning curve and life adjustments, but you aren't alone.

Try not to be too fearful of the future.

I just found out that the appointment that I have coming up that was supposed to be for my biopsy is only a consultation appointment! That means I need to wait a month for that then wait another month or so for the actual biopsy?! That is just crazy. Is it usual to wait so long to get a biopsy? Is there nothing I can do to get seen sooner?

Hi

Normally the biopsy is done when they do a TURBT. Basically the initial tumour is removed for testing. After my first consult and cytoscopy it was about 4 weeks. In the meantime I had CT scan. Now if you have been given a Specialist Nurse I would definitely get in touch and find out more, if not, you can speak to one the Macmillian Nurses on this site by phone. Just having a chat with someone can make a difference.

Keep coming back, we are here

Is a small red patch considered a tumor?

Not always, it's why they do Turbt. In my case, the cytoscopy showed a mushroom like growth. In your case, and I'm not an oncologist, it would seem that your at quite an early stage and the red patch may be nothing. The problem is, when you're undergoing investigation you want everything done at lightening speed, and that is more than understandable. Not knowing is a frightening experience and we've all been there, so don't be frightened to ask and keep coming back for support. I would definitely try and speak to one of the nurses. 

Scorp, if indeed it is cancer, it's been caught very early indeed, you are lucky. Treatments are very effective at this early stage. When I saw my cancer on the screen, it was like a cauliflower in there. For now, play safe & look carefully at your diet, learn how cancer feeds. I am on a Paleo & low GI diet, plus I'm under the care of an Adjunctive treatment clinic. PM me if you'd like more info. But get a diagnoses first.

I just hit the button that said moderator by accident. It said reported. I hope that didn't do anything bad.