Newly diagnosed and terrified

Hi MichTJe3c1f4 and a warm welcome to the board. T1 is the lowest grading of a tumour which is good news as it means it’s been caught very early. Once the tumour has been removed with a clear surrounding area - known as clear margins - then it will be sent off to the lab for testing. Depending on the results you may need further treatment but cross that bridge if and when you get to it.

For now focus on getting as fit and healthy - both physically and mentally- as you can for the op. Keyhole or open these are every day operations for the surgeons and you’ll be well looked after from start to finish. You may need a temporary stoma to allow the bowel time to heal but you will be shown how to look after and there’s also lots of help on here. 

Depending on the lab report then you may need follow up chemo but try not to worry about that for now - focus on the present and take things one step at a time.

Bowel cancer is very treatable especially when caught early. I was diagnosed in 2016 and I’m still ‘no evidence of disease’ as are many others who’ve passed through the board and are now getting on with their lives. 

Happy to answer any questions and the support desk is open 7 days a week if you want to chat to someone in person (number under my name below) 

Take care

Karen x

Hi MichTJe3c1f4 and a warm welcome to the board from me too.

You've had a great answer above from Kareno62 and I agree with being as fit and healthy as you can be before the op and go into it with a positive mindset.

I was diagnosed at the end of 2020 (T3N1)and I'm still 'no evidence of disease'.

This is a great place to come and there's always someone who has been there and done that and willing to share their experience.

Best wishes,

Net77

Thank you