Operation date

Hello billabong 

The operation is major surgery with an extensive recovery period after. You can expect to be in hospital 7 to 14 days after the operation. They will release you once you are capable of walking a certain distance unaided and you bowels are working sufficiently. I suggest between now and your op that you get as fit as possible to aid recovery which is months rather than weeks.

You will learn how to change your  bag for the stoma (thingy) and how to care for it. Having a stoma will change your lifestyle in certain ways 

Iam sure the hospital have made you aware of all thus.

Best wishes 

Mark

Hi Billabong,Welcome to the group.I’m so sorry your cancer came back.It is a big op and as Mark has said if you can get fit beforehand that will help.You will see a stoma nurse(s) who will show you how to care for the stoma.When you come home you will feel very tired so it’s important to rest.It’s best to eat little but often,you probably won’t feel hungry to begin with.You will need to walk/shuffle daily and build up walking distances gradually.The recovery is slow going but over time energy levels pick up.Hospitals vary I was never checked regarding how far I could walk and didn’t see a physio but most here did.Feel free to ask any questions as several of us have been through this surgery and can offer advice and support.Best wishes Jane 

Thank you Jane, I think I've been a bit ignorant on the recovery side of things.

Thanks for the information, I'll get on the fitness wagon