Hi.
Back ground
37 YOF
diagnosed with stage 3 -T4, high rectal cancer in November 2025.
Loop Ileostomy 05/12/25
Started Folfoxiri on boxing day (3 months in total) last does 05/03/26
CT and MRI very encouraging showing good response to chemotherapy. Shrinkage in tumour and lymph node now being small enough for an anterior resection.
My oncologist wants to give me radiotherapy and IV Chemotherapy the 1st and last week or a 5 week/5 day per week course of radiation.
My surgeon feels that I can have an anterior resection but feels both are good options .
My worry.
Radiation: will guarantee the menopause.
Could cause bladder damage
Bowel damage.
And sexual dysfunction damage.
This may shrink the tumour further or may take it away. But will cause me some serious side effects. And may still need the surgery anyway.
Vs surgery which will Take the cancer out
May leave me with serious side effects
May require adjunct therapies.
Stoma may be reversible down the line.
My question: has anyone been through this.
What options did you choose.
Any and all advice welcome.
I am swaying towards surgery because I want this out of me and I want to start recovering and need to get back to work for financial side.
Thanks so much
Stacey
