Rectal cancer

Hi and welcome to the board. Wow, you’ve had a great response to the chemoradiotherapy which will hopefully enable the surgeon to remove the tumour with clear margins. My friend has a permanent colostomy and leads a totally normal life. She’s been on cruises and flown to New York on holiday and wears exactly the same clothes that she did before. 
Can I ask are you having APR surgery where your bottom is sewn up? If so there’s a few people on here who may be able to share their experience with you?

Take care

Karen x

Hi Cherry,

Similar to you 2 years ago I had a lower Hartman's procedure which meant a permanent stoma.

Initially I found it quite difficult to take on board but now it is just a normal part of every day life. It doesn't get in the way of my life and it's part of me.

With the surgery, get yourself in the best physical shape you can beforehand, even if it's just having a good walk every day. The better you are physically the better you will manage the surgery.

Similarly, post surgery try and get yourself mobile as quickly as possible. This will help your bowel to start functioning again and aid your physical and mental recovery. Try to get fluids down you and take small regular meals/snacks. 

It will likely be a bit uncomfortable at first but it's amazing what our bodies can cope with. Your stoma nurses will ensure you are able to take care of your stoma bags etc and likely you will have a stoma nurse to visit you at home for the first month or so at least.

Hope that helps and good luck, 

Martin