This is my first time for many things. Life can throw you many curves; hopefully, I can keep bending with them.
My journey began in Feb. 2010 when I discovered blood in my stool. I waited 7 months and finally got called for a colonoscopy (I called many times to see what was taking so long). In Oct 2010, the surgeon told me I had a tumor in my rectum very low, and was sent for a CT scan that same day. I'm not sure, but I think that he took a biopsy at the time of the colonoscopy. Thanksgiving weekend, I found out the tumor was cancerous but no cancer in other organs (whew). Now the waiting game again as the surgeon wants an MRI done (should be in within 2 weeks); 6 weeks later, after many calls, I got an appointment.
In Jan 2011, I started oral chemo and 28 treatments of radiation to shrink the tumor. After a bit of recovery and more appointments, I had surgery (abdominoperineal bowel resection). I was not prepared for that one. I came out with a permanent colostomy because it was very low and they had to take the muscle. But the cancer is gone. Thank you. I just started getting used to the stoma and all that goes with it when they told me I have to take more chemo (precautionary). As of now, I have one more treatment.
I have been having a bit of problems with my colostomy staying on. I have not gone back to see the ostomy nurse because of the chemo; my output changes, but when I am finished with chemo and feeling better, I am going.
I just wanted to say thank you to all on this site; it has lifted my spirits from time to time, and there is good advice from all.
Thank you!!! Keep up the good work to all.
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