Colorectal Cancer

Takash 4 months ago

2 replies
175 subscribers
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After a series of tests last year 2023 I was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal Cancer. The Doctors back in my home country proposed a procedure through which I will pass out stool through a bag attached to my stomach to ease the pain I was going through which I rejected. Did two sessions of Chemotherapy and moved to the UK to continue with treatment.

I have done a sigmoidoscopy and awaiting results while to do the MRI and CT scan this week. The most difficult part right now is the constant pain and bloody stool. Have not had any good sleep in many months now. I can't wait for the results of the test to be out so the Doctors can give me a plan. But in all I've been super positive throughout this journey and such most people thought I'm unwell Except for the fact that I have lost weight. I am happy to belong to this community now.

Kareno62 4 months ago

Hi Takash and a warm welcome to the board. The waiting for scan results is very stressful but once you have a plan in place then things will honestly feel a bit better.

Is your tumour in the rectal area? They often suggest a stoma before treatment if the tumour is causing pain or discomfort. If it is rectal then you will probably be offered a course of chemoradiotherapy. The radiotherapy can be very successful in shrinking the tumour and a low dose of chemo tablets enhances the effect. My tumour shrank by 75% and I found my stools became bulkier and I stopped passing blood. You should be allocated a colorectal support nurse so you could maybe discuss the pain with them? It’s also worth following a low residue diet as it is easier on the bowel. It’s basically a ‘beige’ diet and I’ve attached a link with a few ideas below.

Low Residue Diet

It’s great to hear that you’re feeling positive - I didn’t feel unwell either so it seemed strange to be having treatment that made me feel unwell!

Lots of support and experience on here so please keep posting and we’ll help you through this

Take care

Karen x

Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

Takash 4 months ago in reply to Kareno62

Yes the tumor is in the rectum quite close to the anal passage. That's for the diet plan