Diagnosed with Stage 4 Bowel cancer at age 62 in Oct 2017

I was wondering if anyone has any similar stories as mine? And if there are any happy endings! 

My mum was diognosed with stage 4 bowel Cancer in October 2017. She had just turned 62. It had spread to her liver and lung. She had a round of chemo, 6 cycles. It helped shrink the tummor and a few of the lesions. 

She then had an operation to remove the primary tummor from her bowel. And went on to have a liver resection to remove the lesions that had spread there.

She had surgery to remove the deep spread in her lung. 

And also had another operation on her liver to remove more lesions, aswell as her gaul bladder, that was causing infections. 

She is having regular mri scans on the liver... Another one due near Christmas, and having 3/6 monthly ct scans too, where the latest one is showing that there are more lesions in the lung and liver... But said the scans arent clear. So they might need to do another one. As they aren't sure what they are yet.

Apparently they aren't sure whether the chemo will work next time round and have said they will only use that at the end....!

Not sure what to think anymore. 

She's feeling healthy in herself, active and eating well and doesn't feel poorly at all.

Scared for what else they can/can't do!!!

Praying they don't give up on her and are able to keep helping as she's fit enough and strong enough to handle it. 

Lisa xx

  • Hello Lisa007, 

    It can be such a rollercaoster of emotions when someone we love is diagnosed with cancer. I'm sure that the past 2 years have had a lot of highs and lows for both Mum and for you too. 

    I'm glad that Mum's treatment has given positive outcomes so far. It's great that she's continuing to feel well and is able to be active.

    It's natural to feel uncertain about things, particularly given that something has been picked up on her most recent scan. Hopefully she won't have to wait too long if it needs to be repeated and you'll all gain some clarity on what it might be. 

    I wonder if you might find it helpful to chat things through with our team of nurses. You can call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I'm sure that they'll be able to offer some advice and support. 

    In the meantime Lisa try not to look too far ahead to the future and enjoy the time that you and Mum spend together. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Hi Jenn, 

    Thank you for your reply. I will consider using the help service you provided. 

    I find myself constantly trying to look for success stories to give me hope.

    Lisa.