On the 31st October my husband was diagnosed with bowel cancer he was told treatment would start pretty much straight away after having a stent put in. It's been almost 6 weeks since diagnosis and he still hasn't started treatment he had a dpd definicy test 2 weeks ago we were told results would be back in a weeks time only to find out yesterday that the hospital have incorrectly labelled he's bloods and there is now no record of him even going for he's bloods done so he has to have the test done again he has had terrible treatment right from the start he was sent home from A&E twice being t
d he was constipated even though a blockage had been identified on he's xray but no further investigation was done on he's 3rd visit to A&E in excruciating pain severely dehydrated and vomiting cons
ntly they actually took him seriously and fully investigated him that's when the cancer was found. It is so frustrating that 6 weeks ago our lives were turned upside down and still not started treat
nt it's terrifying as they have told us the tumor is in several lymph nodes and also touching he's pancreas yet nothing is being done my husband is really struggling with he's mental health he's bece very angry and irritable which is understanding but it is so difficult to deal with as we also have 5 children
Hi Hayley,
Very sorry to hear about your news.
I would say for us (and several others on here) the worst time was that initial period after discovery. Similar to you we didn't start for what seemed like an eternity. Issues with getting port fitted, then infections, every delay felt like a blow to my spirits. However, it get much easier when you get started. There are still hiccups and delays but we've come to realise this is a condition we want to live with and fight as long as possible now we're on this journey. Sounds weird to say that now (only 6 months in ourselves) but a week here or there starts to make less difference in the scheme of things. Just be aware that the treatment itself can have worse side effects than the cancer, so it's really important that you husband is ready for it. We trust the professionals as much as we can even though it's so hard to keep spirits up at times. We have 3 young children too, so they are often the best distraction.
Thank you for your reply it certainly does feel like an eternity
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007