bowel cancer

FormerMember over 3 years ago

1 reply
125 subscribers
375 views

Hi all,

Im new here and not sure how this works but here we go.

My dad has recently been undergoing tests for what the consultant has said is 'locally advanced bowel cancer' which earlier this week he has had some biopsies taken to confirm.

He is in his 60s but otherwise very healthy.

He went to hospital due to intense pain on Friday and we are now being told he needs to stay in for an operation as his bowels are blocked.

I feel totally lost and I just want to do something to help but I can't even be there due to restrictions on visiting. I can't stand the thought of him being in so much pain and on his own.

Is this operation something that is common?

Can anyone give advice on how I can properly support him through this?

Thanks

Kareno62 over 3 years ago

Hi and a warm welcome to the board from me. Yes it’s quite common. It sounds like the tumour is blocking part of his bowel so I’m guessing they’ll either fit him with a stoma (which will divert his poo into a bag on his tummy) or they’ll operate and remove the tumour and then deal with the locally advanced bit later? Either way unblocking the bowel will relieve the pain and he’ll be well looked after by the nurses and, if he has had a stoma fitted, the stoma nurses will make sure he can empty and change the bag before he’s sent home.

Ive attached a link to a booklet below which I was given when starting out and gives you an idea of the terminology used, types of treatment etc. Stay away from google - it is scary and out of date - you can ask anything you want on here and we’ll be happy to support you

https://bowelcancerorguk.s3.amazonaws.com/Publications/YourPathway_BowelCancerUK.pdf

Hopefully your dad will be home soon and ready to begin treatment - bowel cancer is very treatable and, although the treatment can be tough at times, being fit and healthy will help your dad cope with this

Take care

Karen x

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