I am feeling very deflated today as I was feeling great after 1st Turbt in July, it wasn't good news Grade3 PT1 but it had not spread, I got back to work and had a normal 7-8 weeks. Had second Turbt yesterday thought it would go better as I thought just going in to make sure got everything, there was a bit of recurrence which doesn't sound good but it's been 11 weeks, sine the first. A bit too long but lack of beds and staff. I did not stay in but have come home with catheter until Friday, didn't have that before and I just feel his comments were not so positive. I was hoping for bcg plan but I am so scarred it's going to be bladder removal. I thought I was a fit and health woman of 62 next month, this has rocked my world as I am sure people on here will understand. I have read some positive out comes on here but maybe with grade 3 PT1 I shouldn't be so optimistic. Any thoughts would be helpful.
I understand your shock. When I was diagnosed, I assumed it would be the same as my brother had had, low grade recurrences for a while - a nuisance but not a threat. Ho wrong I was & I felt sick when they told me it was aggressive. As I have said before, in the end I chose surgery - among other reasons, I wanted best chance of cure.
With G3, it depends how much of a gambler you feel, what risk you are prepared to take. Rather dismal to say I'm afraid, but the losers are not here to post - only those who won. Make sure to ask your consultant all the pros & cons, risks & benefits. Whatever the course of action, you need to be happy that you are happy with your choice. Your BC is still likely curable. Best wishes.
Thanks Teasswill, how long ago did you go for bladder removal? I should imagine it's life changing, did you ever return to work. I just feel unsure how I would cope with something so big as this. I suppose as you say it's a life or death choice in the end. I feel so sad that we have these journeys when once we were going along happily.
Also I have just read your profile which gives dates and your plan
Hi Bumblebee49,Sorry you are feeling deflated which is natural if you have had a recurrence.Unfortunately it’s not uncommon for bladder cancer to come back.Some people here have been able to keep their bladders and continue with various treatments.My circumstances were different and I had to have bladder removal.It is a big operation but it’s possible to lead a good life after it.I went back to caring full time for my disabled mother 8 months after surgery.Whatever treatment plan you have it’s important to be able to discuss things with your specialist.You have to do what is best for you in the long term.Love Jane x
Thanks Jane yes I have read your comments before, you are always very encouraging. Its just a big decision to make and I was hoping they will maybe try other interventions first, we're you offered anything other than removal straight away?. How are you doing now?
I realise after reading your profile the type of cancer tumour you had you may have had no other options. It was 2019 so a few years ago now.
Hi,No unfortunately it was a solid tumour causing an obstruction so I didn’t have a choice.I’m doing well now though and it’s coming up to 3 yrs since the cystectomy.How are you finding the catheter ? They do sometimes leave them in for a few days after a TURBT.Love Jane x
Hi Bumblebee49. It's understandable how you are feeling at the moment. We know BC has a habit of recurring, but that doesn't help. Once you get your latest biopsy results, things will become clearer and the way forward will be planned. I hope all goes well. Best wishes.
Very uncomfortable really but it's because this did not happen the first time. Cannot wait for Friday to have it removed. You cannot really do a lot as its uncomfortable.
I had the op partly to ensure that I could continue working without further interruption. My job was quite demanding, with a long commute, but only part time. I started back one short day a week after 3 months, but it was a good 8 months before I was doing all my usual activities without end of the day fatigue. Probably ended up fitter than before surgery!
At the time, it was a huge undertaking, but looking back now, seems a short episode in my life. Obviously I am changed, with different toilet habits, but nothing I can't cope with. You are probably stronger than you think.
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