Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 5 replies
  • Views 307 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Newly diagnosed - rectal cancer

Arp1702
Offline

Hi everyone. Following a colonoscopy where a nasty looking polyp was found, biopsies were taken and I have since had a CT scan and MRI. Phone call from hospital has confirmed cancer and that CT scan has shown something 'uncharacterised ' on my liver. Have another MRI coming up at the weekend to take a closer look at this and then have an appointment with Colorectal Surgery outpatients next week to find out what's going on and what the treatment will be. All my blood tests have come back ok and I'm not anaemic, no weight loss or pain, although some discomfort around the tummy which I think is to do with change in bowel habits. Trying to keep positive  ... be great to hear from anyone going through similar. It's quite scary being in this limbo stage!

  • Hello Arp1702

    I'm sorry to hear that, following a recent colonoscopy, it was confirmed that you have rectal cancer and that you now need to have an additional scan of your liver this weekend. It's understandable that you may be feeling a rollercoaster of emotions at the moment, but it sounds as if you're going to try to approach this with a positive mindset. I know that this will hold you in good stead as you move forward. 

    We know that for many people, this period of waiting and uncertainty can be difficult. It's good to know that you already have an appointment arranged for next week with the specialists, and hopefully they will be able to give you some reassurance about the next steps when you meet with them. 

    In the meantime, if it would help to talk things through with one of our nurses, you're most welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can, as well as help you think about any questions you might want to ask. They're available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, on 0808 800 4040. 

    Hopefully you will be able to connect with some other members who have experience of this diagnosis soon, but for now I'm going to tag in one of our lovely members  aka David who has been through treatment for bowel cancer which had spread to his liver. He often shares his story and experiences with people, so do have a look through some of his posts on the forum. 

    Keep in touch Arp1702 and let us know how you get on. We're here for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Thank you, Jenn, for yoyr reply, advice and kind words.

    I have my moments of dark thoughts, have a cry and then focus on being more positive  ... rinse and repeat.

    I'm sure it will become easier to deal with once I know the plan and can focus on that.

    Best wishes,

    Anita

  • in reply to Arp1702

    Hello Anita

    I would say Rinse and Repeat is not a bad thing at this point in the process. It's natural to be scared and worried at times, but as you say, things will become a bit easier when you have clarity on the diagnosis and a treatment plan in place. 

    Let us know how you get on next week. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Arp1702

    Hello Anita,

    l am sorry to read your news, well at least some of it since the fullpicture is yet to be displayed in full. Its a good sign that you are mentioning positivity at the outset since this will be the one thing under your control that you bring to your current situation. Don't ever underestimate the part this will play in your success in seeing off your unwelcome visitor..

    Whilst no stress is perfection, low stress is desirably necessary, stress is your invaders ally and your enemy., your advantage is that you have control of this, your enemy does not. Focus on that from the start and lock it in to your mind. You cannot change your diagnosis, you can affect its outcome by your actions.

    As you rightly say it does become easier when you know what you face, uncertainty is the darkness that can invade your thoughts, but never lose sight of the fact that behind every dark cloud is a bright Sun just waiting its turn to spread warmth and light.

    Wait for the facts and avoid the what If's and take the best you forward, l did thirteen years ago and still do so today so know that the possibilities exist for yourself to do the same,

    take care, small steps can cover a long journey, if you need help along that journey forum members will offer advice and support

    David

  • Offline in reply to gruntifen

    Thank you David for your reply and lovely advice. I will try hard to follow it.

    It is good to know that there is such support here.

    I will update after my appointment next week.

    Thank you again for getting in touch.

    Anita

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.