Hi, I was diagnosed with bowel cancer 6 years ago, and like many others here was terrified. I was graded stage 3 and had a full rectum and anus removal and was told my stoma bag would be permanent. I had subsequent chemo and radiotherapy. While it would be ridiculous to say that it was all completely plain sailing, I have to say that the reality is so much better than your imagination can present. What I thought would be the end of the world (stoma bag) has turned out to be nothing at all, I lead a perfectly normal and happy life and while some may not believe me, if I had the choice to have my bag reversed I would say no Thankyou. Hetty, as she is named, is quietly in the background to the point that it’s easy to forget she’s there at all lol. She was given a name on the advice of my stoma nurse so that if she needs attention while in company or out in a crowded place, you can excuse yourself by simply saying, excuse me I just have to ring Hetty or whatever excuse you prefer . It’s easy to say when my treatment etc is over but the reality really isn’t as bad as you can imagine in your head xx Take advice, try to keep a positive attitude and most of all look after yourself x
Three years ago I also was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, mastectomy chemo and radiotherapy again, (totally unrelated) I’m still here and living my best life, I’m 69 x
Absolutely amazing. Your an inspiration to us all. Louise xxxxx
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Hi Moirq
We also have the stoma support group where you’ll find lots of us living with stomas and there’s lots of useful tips and advice
https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_experiences/ileostomy-and-colostomy-discussions-forum/
I’ve had my permanent colostomy for more than 2.5 years, and it really does become easy to manage as time goes on. You are very soon out of surgery and you have a lot of healing to do, so take care and please ask any questions you need to.
Sarah xx
Mine took a full week to start producing anything, but as I was having wind (a strange sensation at first!) there was no concern about it. Early days for you yet, and once it starts it should be fine. My hospital didn’t believe in having me on any special diet, so as soon as I was out of the high dependency unit and back on the ward I was on the same as everyone else!
Sarah xx
