What next

Hi there,I'm a 71 year young female,I've enjoyed life,had my share of ups n downs,much like everyone l just get on with it.

Following a poo test July 2023..colonoscopy and then an operation for laparoscopic right hand hemicoloectomy which took place in October 2023.

Things moved quite fast.All professionals I came face to face with were wonderful,I feel I couldn't have asked for better treatment and care.

My consultant informed me all went well with the operation lymph nodes were removed and none found cancerous, 

However it was suggested as a precaution to follow up with chemotherapy,though the choice was mine.

I started chemotherapy 15th January which allowed me to enjoy Christmas.

The treatment was oxaliplatin via a cannula followed by 2 weeks off capecitabine 1800 twice a day.

Things were going well however by the 5th day things did change,long story short the medication played havoc with my body leaving me feeling dreadful,I stopped taking the medication, after all they were only a precaution in the event of any cancer being in my system.

I'm now just feeling back to normal.

Trouble is,l have an appointment with my consultant on the 30th January and I'm not sure what questions I should be asking,I've started a list...

Did anyone else stop their meds and what was the outcome.

I don't wish to be seen as a drama queen or baby,l've been a good patient who would like to get on with her life.

Will there be a risk off cancer returning, should l leave it to chance or accept a treatment of chemo that's more agreeable.

The treatment was only for 6 months, l know I should appreciate how fortunate l am to have this opportunity, l just feel l could never cope feeling so awful for 6 month plus 

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter

Kitty1234

  • Hello Kitty1234

    I'm sorry to hear about all that you've been through and how your most recent treatment was so difficult. I know that there will be many members here who understand how this can leave you feeling. 

    We have previously had people post here on the forum who have decided not to continue with treatment due to the side effects they were experiencing. It's a very personal and sometimes difficult decision to make so I really hope that you were able to talk things through with your care team today and reach an agreement that you were comfortable with. 

    If there's anything you want to talk through with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    I do hope that things went well for you today. Let us know how you got on if you're able to. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hi Jen

    Thank you gor your reply.

    I did see my consultant ,long story short  I am in a better position because lymph nodes removed were non cancerous  however I've since been re-booked with the oncologist, not sure if this is to discuss continuing with chemo  maybe a weaker form I really don't know...what l do know is my husband is anxious for me to continue with treatment regardless of how it makes me feel thinking it will get easier as l go along,I'm not so sure..my consultant did say weather I continue with treatment or not I shall still be invited in 6 month for blood tests and a colonoscopy  you can't ask for more that that.

    Regards

    Kitty1234