Hello from my stage 3 colon cancer

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Stage 3 colon cancer after 5.5hr emergency robotic surgery on 18 Dec to remove 20cm. No symptoms except strange regular trots then some blood identified by local poo tests. National screening did not identified locally advanced doughnut tumour that closed to stop solids after 8 biopsy taken. Now waiting for chemo.  Never been bald. New experience! 

NHS and 111 service are amazing along with colonrectal nurses.

Need to get fit again soon to cope with chemo. Any advice?

  • Hi  and a warm welcome to the board. Do you know what chemo you’ll be having? If it’s Capox/xelox then hair loss is not unheard of but most people usually find they’re ok? As for getting fit then I’d advise walking and building up your distance a little each day. You’re still only a few weeks post - op so no pumping iron at the gym!

    Ive attached a link to a post about chemo top tips. There can be a lot of side effects but there are lots of pills and potions to combat them. Sensitivity to cold can be a common one so wrap up warm and keep your face covered when leaving the unit as the cold air can cause face spasms. Also keep a pair of gloves handy around the house for getting things out of the fridge/freezer.

    https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/bowel-colon-rectum-cancer-forum/f/diagnosis/263084/chemo-top-tips-updated

    Hope this helps but feel free to post about any concerns that you might have?

    Take care

    Karen x

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

    I had 8 cycles of capox and my hair did thin but I didn't lose it. My main side effects were fatigue especially towards the end of the treatment along with sensitivity to cold for a few days after each treatment. 

    Good luck with your treatment, keep us updated!

  • Hi Bruce, you shouldn't lose your hair on folfox either. It may go a bit thin though. 

    Good luck with your treatments