Hello!

Hello Harveyrex and welcome to this friendly group. Sorry to hear you have a recurrence after all this time. Lots of experiences here so always someone here to talk to. I hope al goes well with your treatment. Best wishes.

Hi Harveyrex,

sorry about the recurrence, but glad you have been told that you will be having chemo and cystectomy.

That's where my journey started just over 3 years ago. I was 69 , managed the chemo OK, not pleasant but doable. Then I had the op. They tell you it's like running a marathon and to get as fit as you can as it's a long operation even when done robotically. 

I have since had 3 years of good quality life and am aiming for many more. 

So yes, there is hope and I'm sure your team will do.their best to support you through it.

There are many people on here who have survived many years after their op. You can see people's histories by clicking on names.

Finally, on my first day back to my literature class after recovering from the op, a young looking pensioner  (woman) came up to me as I sat down asked if I had a stoma and how was I. I said fine and she said, yes my husband had one of those, he had it for 20 years, no problem. Of course he's dead now, but not from that. She made me laugh, anyway.

So that's something to aim at, I feel, not that I particularly want to live until I'm 90 (unless fit and capable).

All the best,

Latestart

Dear Latestart,

I am so grateful to read your words - I have not comm’d the full details of my situation to a great many, just employers, (I’m a teacher), and one or two friends.

Since diagnosis I have seemingly little control over my emotions and struggle to see a way through.  Hence the post.  

Your words and anecdote have been well received and I thank you for taking the time to share your experience, it has provided a balance to sometimes unwieldy thoughts.

Rgds,

Harveyrex