My Sisters Metastatic Rectal Cancer

Hi everyone ,I am new to this group 

my 73 year old Sister underwent Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy 3 years ago to treat her rectal cancer ,

She tolerated the many sessions well ,following the treatment her weight plummeted to 6stones from 9 stones and we never managed to get her weight above 6 and 1/2 stones 

She had the usual follow up scans and blood tests for following two years ,then Metastatic cancer was found in her pelvis,lungs and liver.She underwent further Chemotherapy and the tumours appeared to disappear.

A month ago (August 2025) she had an MRI scan and blood tests and last week (late September 2025) her consultant rang her to say that sadly the cancer has reappeared in her liver.

He said that a further MRI scan has been booked for early November 2025 and then he will arrange an appointment with him to discuss what avenues are open to my sister.

i have moved in permanently with my Sister now.

She is extremely upbeat about her diagnosis.I would love to hear from other carers /family members who may have faced the metastatic cancers re emergence 

Best wishes sent to everyone 

  • Hello NannaSandra and welcome to Cancer Chat,

    I'm sorry to hear that your sister's cancer has returned, though it's encouraging to hear she's feeling upbeat. Caring for a loved one is a natural and wonderful thing to do, but of course it can come with its challenges. There is guidance for family, friends and carers on our website, which I hope will be useful. You and your sister can also refer to the advice on metastatic bowel cancer anytime and if either of you would like to speak to a cancer nurse about anything, you can contact our friendly team for free on 0808 800 4040. Lines are open 9 to 5 Monday to Friday.

    Best wishes to you both and I hope her appointment in November goes ok,

    Moderator Anastasia