When do you carry on as ‘normal?’

Hi Jane,

Janice describes herself as "living with cancer" because ever since diagnosis her cancer has not been subject to "cure".

The oncology team keep a good eye on her so that if the cancer does kick off again we can get to it quickly but are really pleased as how she does.

Perhaps the question might be "what is normal?". I have been very open about the effect cancer has had on our family and as a result quite a few friends and family have felt they can open up over the way cancer has affected them. Sometimes it can just be as simple as acknowledging that it hurts but that anyone would feel like that.

<<hugs>>

Steve

Hi Jane

I know what you mean. I'm thankfull that work keeps me busy and I am getting away in my caravan when I can, but every twinge in the area where I had surgery makes me wonder what's happening.

My last CT was clear thankfully, though I have now been referred to Colorectal Team and waiting to find out why this is.

I am determined not to let this beat me, if I'm thinking about it, then I give myself 5 minutes to work through why it's on my mind and then make a note of anything I want to discuss with the doctor before making a conscious decision to get.on with the day... it doesn't always work, but more often than not it does.

It would be good if people could meet in person during these difficult times, but so thankful that we have these forums

Take care, Chrissy x

Thank you. I don’t work, so that doesn’t help. 
The 5 minutes a day, is a good idea, I’ll try that. 

Yes, I feel the same, would love to be able to meet people face to face, in the same boat. 

Thank you

You too xx 

Good luck with the colorectal team x

Hi, I had my CT scans done 12 days ago and I'm seeing my sarcoma consultant on Tuesday morning. The last four weeks have been difficult. I'm back to being constantly anxious and worrying about the scan results. Since my hysterectomy my bowel has been overactive and painful. The last two days I've had stabbing pains to the left of my bellybutton so I'm trying not to worry that it's gone into my bowel. I hope that I can get to a point where cancer isn't on my mind 24/7  take care of all, Deb

Hi Deb 

Waiting for results is so difficult isn’t it, good luck for tomorrow. I’m the same, I’m struggling too, and just so up and down! 
The anxiety could be causing your bowel problems?  My bowels have been awful since hysterectomy too, although I already suffered with IBS. Do painkillers help?, or maybe try buscopan for stabbing pain? 
I would feel the same, and constantly worry about every twinge. 
I would like to wake up one morning and think of something else! 
Take care and good luck tomorrow  

xxx

The CT showed an abnormal area which they think might be scar tissue. To be sure I have to go for an MRI scan in the next couple of weeks then a consultation two weeks later. I was hoping that I wouldn't have to go back for three months but I'm glad that they're being so thorough.

• Hope all goes well with the MRI Nd it's nothing more than scar tissue. I'm thankful for the 3 monthly screenings, I'm due back in 3 weeks and terrified of the new referral but glad of the monitoring 

Hi Jane, I don't know where you live but is there a Maggie's Centre close to the cancer hospital you're attending? There is one just opposite the Christie hospital in Manchester. Apparently an architect's wife died from cancer and he made it his mission to design beautiful buildings where cancer patients can go for advice, company etc. I haven't been to the one in Manchester yet but I've heard it is a lovely, calm place to be. Deb

Hi Deb 

I’m in Gosport, Hampshire. There is one at the Southampton hospital that I’m under, but it’s quite a drive to get there. I may consider it soon as I’d like to speak to other people face to face. 
Thanks. Let me know if you visit the one in Manchester 

xx