The unknown

Hi Bennett

I was diagnosed in October 2013 aged 62 and like you recently retired when apparent disaster hit.

The upper hand was given to you in the form of surgery, but as you say another battle begins - recovery.

I'm sure I'm not the first to tell you that the surgery you have just had was a major one and that the recovery from it is slow.

I just looked back at the journal I was keeping after my op. Three weeks post op I was venturing outside for a daily constitutional - a 100 yard walk, taking pain killers several times a day, eating six small meals a day, experiencing early and late dumping syndrome and chronic diarrhea. But things did improve and by the time six weeks had passed I thought I was just about ready for some more chemo!

Now six years after diagnosis I look back on my journey and I realise that things improved constantly (albeit slowly) for two years after my surgery, until a new normality established itself.

I would never have imagined that I would reach this level of fitness and 'normality' again. But I am still here, happier and fitter than I have been for 30 years! My life is full. My wife and I do long-haul holidays and we have enjoyed our two sons' weddings and our three granddaughters are a joy in our lives. These are things I couldn't have imagined when I was at the stage you are now. So take heart there is still some living to do!

If you want more details of my recovery, please don't hesitate to ask. But remember everybody's journey is slightly different.

Hi Bennett, 3 weeks is early days I hope you have patience. There have been some people who have had fairly quick recovery times, however I found out that it takes time. If you have recently retired then you don't have to rush to get back to work. I took to watching the birds out of the kitchen window, and like Brent short walks to build up my confidence and strength. It's a journey and like Brent I have adjusted to the new normal and enjoying a simple life. Don't be hard on yourself take all the time you need to recover. Good luck and kind regards Frank.