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FormerMember over 4 years ago

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Hi I’m new here was diagnosed with bc after having my colonoscopy on 24th June (after 2 cancellations) had my op on 23rd July not keyhole as too big and apart from having to go back to hospital with an infection I am recovering well, they got out all the cancer (I had a right hemi-colectomy) but have found a few cancerous cells in the blood vessels which nurse has said I may/may not have a few spots floating around my body which are to small to detect I have a meeting on 3rd to discuss what next either I wait 6 months to see what develops or I could have chemo but as I’ve had a heart attack 5 years ago and have mild copd that’s what is going to be discussed has anyone else been in similar situation? My instinct is to have chemo and get rid weather it’s there or no but I’m worried they’ll not let me because of my problems I only know I’m a t3 I’ve had no letter at the moment with any other diagnosis...sorry for long post.

court over 4 years ago

Welcome to the forum . Glad you joined in the discussion. Firstly it’s great to hear you are safely through surgery and currently disease free .

The oncologist use a risk/ benefits analysis when it comes to chemo and a persons general health but as you can imagine a lot of people have previously had heart issues prior to developing bowel cancer . If your familiar with the NICE guidelines that are there for Drs to follow in the UK there is a section for Bowel cancer patients who may have previous heart issues and may not tolerate first line chemo . There are other chemo options that are more appropriate. They may also ask a cardiologist to assess you or you could ask for that a referral to be assessed so you are better informed about your risks .

They will however talk this through with you at your initial assessment with the oncologist. You could google the NICE guidelines before you go and ask about other options for you if your concerned you won’t be heard .

Take care and I hope it all goes well for you .

Ask anything you like here . Someone will most likely have experienced it .

Court

Helpline Number 0808 808 0000

FormerMember over 4 years ago in reply to court

Thankyou court for your reply I shall look that up

Gemmary over 4 years ago

Hi , I was diagnosed with vascular invasion ,ie they found cells in or near the blood vessels, but mine was rectal cancer. So I am not sure if the treatment is the same, but it did mean I had chemo after surgery to mop up anything. Hope all goes well on the 3rd.