New to the Group and Quite Late

FormerMember over 4 years ago

3 replies
177 subscribers
757 views

Hi All, diagnosed T2 rectal cancer Nov 2019, into surgery within 3 wks. All good. Stoma reversal in early 2020 postponed due to covid (april). June 2020 there is now a recurrence so I have 6 wks chemo / radio. All good again but now no stoma reversal, that stays and I need APR surgery. Dec 20, go in for APR, abandoned half way through, think they see another recurrence which turns out to be a false alarm but also they may need to operate on the bladder and they arent set up for that so referred to Christies. Past few weeks have been consultations and scans at Christies. Results due within the next few days. Not expecting anything new to come up on these, this is more of a formality being under a new surgeon, but worst case could be pelvic clearance, either way due to happen within the next 4 wks. Well adjusted to my condition so maybe able to help / advise anyone who may be only recently diagnosed

court over 4 years ago

Really pleased to welcome you to the forum . You sound as though you have a good surgical team coming together , although I also think it’s great when a surgeon knows their limitations but happy to refer to a more experienced team .

Each time my mum had one of the bigger procedures the surgeons liked up to date scans to refer to in theatre as well .

Hope you hear something soon !

I think it’s absolutely fantastic that you are willing to assist others just being diagnosed. It makes the forum more meaningful if people can connect like that . So thank you for that . I am constantly aware I came here for my mum ! But have no experience when it comes to so many aspects .

Take care ,

Court

Helpline Number 0808 808 0000

FormerMember over 4 years ago in reply to court

Hi, thanks for your message. Yes I think im on the right track and appreciate a new surgeon will need their own up to date scans.

I think it can be more difficult for loved ones to come to terms with a cancer in the family. When you are the one living with it you can come to terms with it quicker and learn to accept whatever is thrown at you. That’s amazing that you are here for you mum and seem to be a semi permanent fixture haha!

court over 4 years ago in reply to FormerMember

. I sure am stuck here after a decade ! but I can honestly say way back then the approach to a stage 4 patient was not as aggressive so I informed myself on here of how to move forward and who was the best people to consult with . There was even a point when she scanned so well for a few years she was nearly discharged. A met them showed up her scan but she has worked her way back to yearly scans ! I think they will probably keep her now . Her oncologist saw her out shopping with my sister and a big smile crossed her face . Only thanks to her and the good care she takes of her . So here I am still flying the flag of consulting with centres of excellence!

You sound as though you have a firm grasp of the process and will be a valuable contributor. So good when people offer that type of support to others .

Have a good day ! We have sunshine today !

Court

Helpline Number 0808 808 0000