Hello Boylo and thank you for getting in touch,

I’m really sorry to hear what you’ve been through. Being told the cancer has spread and having what sounds like a very major operation, on top of that, is a lot to take in. Understandably, you want to know what this means for your outlook.

When it comes to outcome, I’m afraid there isn’t a simple or definite answer. Even when cancer has spread, people’s situations can vary quite a lot.

It will depend on things like the type of cancer, where it has spread to, how much was removed during surgery, and how well it responds to any further treatment. Some cancers, even when they have spread, can still be treated very effectively.

Because your situation involves complex surgery, your own hospital team are the only people who can give you a clearer idea of what this might mean for you. They’ll know exactly what was found during the operation and what the next steps are.

If you have a specialist nurse (CNS), they can often be a really good person to speak to about this, as they can help explain things and go through what to expect.

I do hope you’re able to get some clearer answers soon. If it would help to talk things through, you’re very welcome to call our freephone helpline on 0808 800 4040, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Take care

Jemma