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Diagnosed yesterday with colon cancer

SBez
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Hi everyone. I’m new here; was diagnosed yesterday with colon cancer. I’m awaiting a CT scan which will give us an indication of stage, area, next steps etc. 

Don’t think I’ve really processed this yet. Feeling completely numb. Family and friends are crying and emotional but I don’t really feel anything. Is this normal I wonder?! Just thinking maybe others have felt this way and wondering if it will hit me and what that may be like. Or maybe I’m in denial. I was told 8 weeks ago it could be cancer; we were just awaiting biopsy results. Don’t think the possibility ever really Sank in. Or perhaps I’m burying everything and not wanting to face reality.

Maybe just wondering if anyone else has experienced similar in the early stages. 

Thanks! ️

  • Hello SBez

    I'm sorry to hear that you have recently been given a diagnosis of colon cancer. After a diagnosis of cancer, you might have a range of feelings including disbelief, denial, fear, sadness and anxiety. These are normal responses to a stressful life experience. There is no right nor wrong way to feel after hearing the news that you have cancer. Just be aware of your thoughts and emotions and talk with your specialist cancer nurse if you have concerns. 

    It's good to hear that the team are already in the process of organising further investigations and hopefully, you won't have to wait too long for the CT scan and results. The team should then be in a better position to answer some of your questions and talk through the recommended treatment pathway with you. 

    We know that for many people this period of waiting for further testing and information can be difficult. If it would help you to talk with one of our nurses you're welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Take things a day at a time SBez and hopefully you will have some positive news soon. Keep in touch and let us know how you're doing. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Hi Jenn,

    Thank you so much for your reply.  I have a CT scan booked in for tomorrow, so will hopefully have some more answers then. 
    Thanks aswell for sending through the number for the nurses. I will definitely give them a call if I need to. 
    All the best 

  • Offline

    Hi Bez, I myself was diagnosed with colon cancer in February 2024. I understand how you feel, as I went through exactly what you are experiencing today. The diets, the CTC scans the waiting. Like you at first it didn’t sink in, but I faced it with a positive attitude of if I’ve have colon cancer, then I have it and will accept anything they asked me to do. Luckily for me after all test were carried out, I was diagnosed as stage two. I had a colon resection carried out on the 24 April last year where the cancer was removed along with 20 lymph nodes, and I didn’t require any further treatment such as chemotherapy, but had I had to have it I would have. last week I had my second appointment with my colonoscopy specialist nurse, and everything was ok. Never give up, and never think the worst. I wish you luck and best wishes, keep fighting.

  • Offline in reply to Krenny

    Hi Krenny. 

    thanks so much for this reply. I’m feeling much more positive today, CT scan tomorrow so will know more then. Love to hear success stories and so glad you’re ok now. All the best. 

  • Offline in reply to SBez

    I’m glad that I have made you feel better within yourself, having a positive attitude goes a long way. Thank you for your best wishes, , good luck for tomorrow, 

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