Fear!

Hi

I had my Bowel Resection back in May 2019.aged 70 yrs, & I well remember that horrible week before, when I was just in a daze of fear, & just went into a sort of shell like state. I didn't want to see or talk to anyone at that time. I also remember the pre op consultation with the surgeon - & being told all the worst scenarios that could happen - but, they have to tell you those (it's just a sort of insurance policy for the hospital.) It's just like opening a packet of tablets - if you read the possible side effects, you might not want to take one! However, those side effects are often quite rare!

Looking back, I remember the relief the following day after the Op. When the anaesthetic had worn off, & feeling utter relief - that I was still alive, & the cancer was removed.

Best wishes

Marianne x

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Thanks Marianne - very reassuring to hear your positive story. If I think too much my imagination works overtime so I’ve been busy doing housework, which I hate! Next two days we have things planned and then Thursday I give myself to Moviprep…!

Take care

Lou

Just go with the flow this week, & do what you like to do! Yes,you will hate the Movieprep - unfortunately, it's a necessity - but it's just one day out of your life!

Pack your little bag with enjoyable things you like. I took two books & a Times Codeword book.(The hours lying around on a hospital bed can be very long!)  Fortunately, other than the meals & drinks trolley, there was a volunteer trolley that came around everyday- selling Newspapers & Chocolate Bars - that I was very happy with!

Marianne x

Yes, I’ve downloaded all sorts of stuff my husband doesn’t like to watch so I can binge watch to my hearts content! And can listen to stuff on podcasts while sketching. Trouble with hospitals they are so busy and noisy at all times of day and night. Earplugs and eyemask in the bag.

Lou x

Hi all - further my fear posts I am home, CANCER FREE! Surgeon got it all, none in lymphs and no chemo. Amazing NHS. 8 hours under anaesthetic as he did an excellent keyhole but I then started bleeding so he had to open me up as well. Somewhat sore but just so grateful. Now to get on with the rest of my life!

best wishes to all on this scary journey!

love

Lou

Hello I'm 7 weeks downline of resection..left hemi colon.I was terrified hearing all that could go wrong.What I learnt, day 3 post opp is hard, day 2 you still have the opp drugs in your system so it feels not too bad. Don't eat solid food for first few day's, lots of water, fluids, soup if you can.Ask family to bring this in if hospital don't provide soup  I found the food provided wasn't appropriate for low fibre diet so I felt sick. You might feel uncomfortable when your catheter is removed for a day or so do again lots of fluids.Say yes to all pain relief even if you don't need it, get it in your system before you do .Hot water bottles  heat pads are a must and really help.Physio ..do it even when you really want to lie in bed. I can't believe how well ive recovered 7 weeks on and I continue to get  stronger. My chemo journey now starts. Good luck, breath, know you are in good hands and my heart goes put to you I know how scary this point feels.