Recurring rectal cancer

Hi 

https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/bowel-colon-rectum-cancer-forum/f/new-here-say-hello/203540/expectations-when-going-home-after-total-pelvic-exenteration-surgery

Sorry to hear your husband is having to face more surgery. I think this is similar to total pelvic exenteration! You might want to use our search function to have a look at other threads but  has given some very good insight to other posters and worth a read a read for some realistic encouragement.

I will also tag in  to share from a relatives perspective!

In terms of a cure , they never guarantee however in the U.K. they still mainly use surgery with curative intention . In other words they are trying to aim at a cure ! That’s how it was explained to us anyway !

It does feel quite isolating for patients and families when it’s more complex surgery but it is great being able to tap into others experiences here !

Take care ,

Court 

• Thank you so much for your reply. I checked out the man you recommended and read out his experience to my husband. This is the first time I’ve felt positive since we had the news so thanks again xx

So pleased ! There is a lot of power in a little hope ! I think hearing how others have navigated these situations allows you to draw strength and knowledge! It also helps you to be much more realistic about recovery especially as a relative as it gives insight into the milestones of recovery ! 
Send your husband our kindest wishes for smooth surgery and recovery !

Court 

I had a similar operation for rectal cancer in December 2019 that removed my anus, rectum, cocyx and a chunk of my sigmoid colon. I also had my levator muscles replaced with plastic surgery and had a permanent stoma. The op was challenging but my recovery was fine- took me about 6 weeks and I then had a 3 month Capox chemo programme which wasn't too bad to target any micro cancer cells that maybe left in the pelvic area. I was then scanned and found to be clear in September 2020. Delighted to say I am still clear with my latest scans in Sept 2021 and back enjoying life and living fine with the permanent stoma which is not as bad as people often fear.  I am 65 so I think your husband has every chance of doing the same as me. You just need a positive attitude and faith in the science and the brilliant NHS. Check out my profile for a more detailed explanation of my journey but wishing you all the very best and do let me know if you have any questions. cheers Sean 

Sean thank you so much for your reply, that has given me so much more hope and I will go now and immediately read it to Nick (the hubby) The operation sounds almost identical to what they have planned for him. I can’t tell you how much reading that has cheered me and helped …I will definitely go and check out your story! 
suzanne x