Bowel cancer

Hi Wigwoo.

Welcome. Would you like to share what you're feeling nervous about?

I'm 8 weeks post op, I have  a stoma bag getting used to it having  chemotherapy  at the moment,  things are a bit overwhelming. 

Wigwoo - sounds similar to me. I'm abput 2/3rds thro my chemo treatment plan.

How far through are you? And how are you finding it?

Hi Wigwoo 

In addition to the great support you’ll get in this group, were you also aware there is a dedicated stoma support group? If you click on the link I have made here it will take you directly to it.

Stoma Support Group

Please feel free to ask any stoma related questions there when you feel able. We have lots of experience, advice and helpful tips.

Sarah xx 

Is it the chemo that's overwhelming or the combo of everything?

Hi Wigwoo and a warm welcome from me too. It’s a lot to take in isn’t it but we’re here to help you through it. We’re all at different stages of treatment or recovery so happy to help you through this x

First lot of chemotherapy done, feeling sick, swollen ankles, pins and needles too.

Thank you  

Hi Wigwoo.

Yes, nausea is tricky. I was prescribed anti-nausea meds but prefer to try natural ways if possible. Oddly i found that a salty rice cake when i feel very nauseus and about to vomit helpful. Somehow takes every down a notch - so still are nauseus but don't vomit!

Swollen ankles - have compression socks helped at all?

Pins and needles - nightmare indeed. I'm still trying to find things to help on this. Initally thick moisuring multiple times a day on sole of feet + thick warm socks and sock footwear have helped a bit but not enough! What have you tried?

Do you have a good oncology consultant or specialist nurse that could give you suggestions specific to you?

Hi Wigwoo

I had my stoma ("Eddie") almost 2 years ago (4th Feb 2021), and like you, underwent post op chemo. I felt that amongst the side effects of the chemo, was the feeling of being overwhelmed, every emotion seemed to be exagerrated, whether that was fear, sadness, anxiety, anger and even happiness, so I went through several months (the chemo lasted 8 cycles of 3 weeks (2 weeks on, 1 week off) but takes time to leave the system)), of turbulent times. However, I am a very positive and pragmatic chap, and had decided at diagnosis that I WOULD beat it and would go on to live a very full and happy life.

I'm over the treatment now, my cancer has been cut out and although life is different in terms of the stoma routines, I am happy, fit, strong and living life to the full.

I've just started self irrigation, which is interesting and takes some time to get used to, but I'm going to stick with it as it will give more freedom and less anxiety about potential mishaps or "poonami's" !!!!

I find strength in wrtiting defiant and humourous poetry, which I post on here (Express yourself forum) and would say to you, that I understand where you're at, but it gets better I promise. The human body and mind are remarakble and you can live with cancer.

Good luck in your journey

Richard (AKA Eddie Stomart)