My Mum’s Bowel Cancer Story – Seeking Support and Similar Experiences

My wonderful mum was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in January 2021. She had a lower anterior resection and then endured 6 months of chemotherapy, which really floored her physically and emotionally. Although she completed it, the experience left her with a deep fear of ever going through chemo again — something we worry may affect treatment options down the line.

Her original tumour was small with clear margins, but there was involvement in 2 local lymph nodes and vascular invasion, so we knew the risk of recurrence was real.

For two years, she remained clear — then in 2023, two tiny nodules were found in her lungs. At first, we were devastated by a harsh consultation where we were told to start chemo immediately and were told there were “multiple lesions.” It felt so final and rushed. Thankfully, we got a second opinion at The Christie, where they were calm, clear, and only saw 2 suspicious nodules. They recommended watchful waiting, and we followed that advice for nearly 2 years, during which nothing else appeared and the nodules barely grew.

This January (2025), now 4 years since her original diagnosis, she had SABR (stereotactic radiotherapy) to both lung nodules. The response so far has been promising — no new activity in those areas.

However, at her most recent scan (July 2025), we were shocked to learn that another nodule in the opposite lung, which they apparently have been monitoring quietly, has now grown — from around 4–6mm to 9mm in about 4 months. This was a real blow, as we’d been told everything was going well, and we weren’t even aware this other spot was under surveillance. It’s now going to the MDT next week to discuss what to do next.

We’re still clinging to hope — this could still be treatable, maybe even with SABR again — but the emotional impact of this news has been heavy. I’m her only child, and she is everything to me and my 7-year-old daughter. My mum is still so full of life, and I’m trying to be strong for her, but truthfully I’m struggling.

If anyone has experience of:

• Lung nodules growing after years of stability
• SABR being used more than once
• Treatments you’ve had or refused and what helped your decision
• Or just want to share some kind words or hope

…I would be so grateful. Thank you for reading. 

just to add she is a very fit and healthy (other than the C!) 69 year old.