Chemo or not chemo?

Hi, I had a left hemi, with kidney and stomach involved,  42 nodes removed 3 cancerous. Oncologist said it was 50/50 if it was caught or coming back and chemotherapy would improve my chances by about 5%, I too am self employed, no work, no eat. I decided against with the support of my family , my decision, happy to live or die with the consequences,  word of warning,  I have received no follow-up at all since declining,  5 months ago

Hi,

I had a right hemicolectomy in November and was told that chemotherapy would give me an extra 8% chance of avoiding reoccurrence. I initially  wondered if  it was worth going through the side effects of chemotherapy but yes it absolutely was if it helps to prevent reoccurrence! 

You can pay for a blood test to see if you have rogue cells at my hospital but it’s £5000. I’m also T3 with 2 lymph nodes involved however I have signet cells.  My tumour was MSI high so I’m currently awaiting genetics testing. I decided to take the four rounds of CAPOX to give me the best chance, I’m 43 with 2 school aged children. I’m currently 5 days from finishing my last round. Side effects weren’t too bad other than the nausea. 

You can read my whole story by clicking on my name.

Rachael

Age 49   ,Left side hemicoletomy , 6 weeks age , cells found in 1 of 18 lymphnodes,  and in the tiny blood vessels on the edge of the colon , low risk?

, I was offered a trial where they take approx 40ml of blood which they 'spin' and check gor cancer cells ,

Wasn't the easiest desicion , however due to history on both sides of the family, I have opted for chemo , the Capox regime .for 4 cycles . My consultant and specialist nurses understood my choice 

Had my first infusion today , manageable just waiting to see what happens when I start the tablets. Speaking the oncology nurse , he explained if it was too much and I wasn't coping with the side affects then , I can look another treatments or doses can be amended

I have over hauled some aspects of my diet , and spent time discussing changes to how I will be working , so I can get back sooner , luckily my first cycle is while I am still signed off so I can see how it goes . 

Take care x 

Hi, I had a right hemicolectomy back in October, was T4 but none in nodes, fragments in minor blood vessels,  so I opted for and am currently on preventative chemo. I started on combined oxaliplatin infusion and the capecitabine tablets,  but came off the infusions due to an adverse reaction.  I tolerate the tablets better, am able to do more, and am pleased with that decision even though it means 2 more cycles,  6 not 4. You will know best what is right for you, trust your gut instinct,  sorry about the pun.