Possible Chemo

4 replies
174 subscribers
609 views

Hi all

I had surgery to remove a large type 2 colon tumour (Pt4b) 9 weeks ago. The surgeons did a Hartman’s procedure and also a full hysterectomy as the tumour had gone through the bowel wall and was onto the uterus.

I am in my early 70s - previously fit and active - but recovery has been slow - with pains still in legs, arms and neck. I saw the Oncologist yesterday who has suggested precautionary tablet based chemo for 6 months.

The statistics he gave me make it a difficult decision. Basically I have a 75% chance of being cured, and a 25% chance of mortality from either cancer or something else without chemo over the 5 year horizon. The chemo would improve my chances by 2.8% - but need to make a decision in the next 2 weeks. What have other people done in the circumstances?

Katz51 over 3 years ago

I had a slightly different procedure.a panproctocolectomy with a permanent iliostomy.I was offered capox chemo as a "belt and braces " afterwards.I went for it as I wanted to make sure I had thrown everything possible at the cancer.

However that is my personal opinion.everyone is different and at the end of the day its your choice.I havent regretted going for the chemo and if you click on katz51 above you can see how I got on.

All the best with whatever you decide to do

Kath

Gemmary over 3 years ago

Hi, Rhondy, I had different surgery, but similar % chances, including with 30 weeks chemo. I did take the chemo, as I wanted to say I tried everything. Just about halfway I was getting more run down/sicker with the 5FU, and then started my mantra, "just one more".....and then there were none!

What I'm trying to say is maybe try it, and see how you react, everyone is different. If it becomes too much to take, then just say you tried, and stop. No one is going to force you to take it. My dose got dropped twice, so that is something else to factor in.

Take care, xx

Rhondy over 3 years ago in reply to Katz51

Kath

Thank you so much for replying and sharing your journey. I haven’t yet definitely decided although see your point about trying everything . The tablet proposed by the oncologist is Capecitabine which Is one you had as well.
Take care

Rhondy over 3 years ago in reply to Gemmary

Thanks for the reply - you’ve certainly had a journey! Still mulling over but very helpful comments -thank you.

Take care xx