Rectal cancer

Hi I just wanted to try and reassure you even if it’s only a little. I had stage 3 rectal cancer in 2019. I had 5 weeks of chemo tablets and radiotherapy together. I then had a three month period where nothing seemed to be happening, but the treatment was working it’s magic! I got a 30%+ shrinkage of my tumour, which enabled me to have surgery. I can’t imagine how it feels as the partner of someone diagnosed with cancer. I think it’s easier for those of us who have it to some extent. It is a very difficult time for both of you, and this is why this site is so important. Reach out for support, or ask questions. There is usually someone who can either help, or knows someone who can. Wishing you both all the best.

Hi,

My husband got diagnosed with bowel cancer last week, we have his first appointment next week regarding his treatment.

My husband seems to have taken the news really well but I am a mess.

We have been together for 20 years and he is my absolute rock, I will be working part time as well as looking after him and my 14 year old son.

I feel awful moaning as he is the one that is ill but I just don't know how I am going to cope. 

Hope you and your partner are well and treatment is working for you.

Take care

Kell

Hey Kell Sug

please don’t worry about coming on here “moaning” as you put it! You should hear some of my “rants” when I’ve been frustrated, or fed up with all the waiting. This is a safe space for all of us. Hopefully once you’ve had his meeting you’ll know more about what, how and when his treatment will be. It does get a bit easier once you have a plan. I’m a fan of trying to stick to a rough schedule, but cancer treatment doesn’t always allow for that! It is easy to say keep busy and stay positive, but not always easy to do. Allow yourself to be angry, sad or frustrated. It’s much better than bottling everything up. I’m speaking from personal experience here. Take care and good luck for this week.

Hi Jools63,

Thank you for your kind words, I am a planner and I know this treatment will not let me plan.

I am so nervous with what weare going to get told on Tuesday, it is so hard to try and concentrate on anything other than my husbands diagnosis.

Thanks for taking time out of your day to get in touch.

How are you?

Take care

Kell x

The days do drag when you’re waiting for answers. I’m seeing my oncologist on Tuesday, so a big day for us both! I’ve recently started chemotherapy so am seeing her to update her on side effects, anshe’ll let me know if I can carry on. Fingers crossed for Tuesday.