I am just starting the chemo and radiation. 5 weeks total. 8 - 10 weeks after I am to have a colostomy, which I am not totally opposed to but then again I am wanting to shy away from. I have read on many websites - reliable ones, not just a blog post - that there are many limitations when you have a colostomy. I am of the mindset, why even bother with the surgery if the chemo and radiation have destroyed the cancer. (I am in stage 3 rectal cancer). For me, I am concerned what others think, see, SMELL (lol), of me once I have this surgery. Will this improve my quality of life or will it just buy some more time here on earth? I really need some good advice from those that have had similar concerns. Thank you in advance.

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Before making the trip from your hospital bed to your home, it's important to review some essential care tips and precautions with your stoma care nurse.
Follow our 9-point hospital discharge checklist.
Follow our 9-point hospital discharge checklist.
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Resuming your personal and work life after ostomy surgery can be challenging to adjust to a new life.
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Learn ways to adjust to life after ostomy surgery.