Hi....I am recently seeing so many new posts that refer to the utter shock & horror of being diagnosed with bowel cancer, whether it be you or your partner,
I have been on this journey since May '19. I well remember the day I was diagnosed in April '19. It was immediately after a Colonoscopy....when I was still feeling very sedated & didn't take in what I was being told. I just remember saying to the man who did it (who turned out to be my future surgeon,) 'I did well didn't I?' referring to the Colonoscopy - that I had been so fearful of.
It wasn't till the next morning that the news sank in, but even then, I pushed it from my mind....I can't now explain my feelings adequately at that time. I just continued my life....but knew there was something nagging in my brain.I live on my own, & couldn't share my feelings at that time. But suddenly, I was receiving phone calls, appointment letters, explanatory leaflets....& had to start talking about it with my daughter & friends....which suddenly made the whole situation real to me - & hence, very frightening.
However, I realise now that I was temporarily in shock & denial at that time. Once things kicked in, & a treatment plan began, it became easier (though no less frightening,) but owning up to what I had certainly helped.
Just six weeks later, & I had a left Hemicolectomy to remove the 5cm Tumour in my bowel. A year later, it spread to my right lung....which was eradicated. Two years on, I'm still here....aged 72 years. & I'm now still being looked at...in terms of CTs, Blood tests every six months.
All I'm trying to say is.....The shock is awful.....but the NHS can do wonderful things!
I sincerely wish anyone that has had a recent diagnosis all the very best.
Marianne 26
