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So Fast.. I have stage 3 bowel cancer and anaemia

GraceD
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On Oct 3rd 2024 I went too my GP too ask about the Lump on my arm, which ended up been checked over by my GP  cos I lost weight...

Next day I had too return for blood tests...which resulted in me having a low blood count and low iron..yes this was animea...I stayed in hospital  for 3 days with blood transfusions and iron is.. They opted for me too have a ultra scan and ct scan which later on I found out I had bowel cancer, a few days went by I had a colonoscopy  and they had taken 10 biopsy from it.

Going forward because they can't operate right now cause it's big, they decided that a stoma bag Is needed for a better chance of survival, that is something  I've never wanted nor I can see myself cleaning it, I've been traumatised by hospitals all my life.. and am terrified of hospitals but I'm not sure no one is listening too me..

This is all happened so fast for me and no one has really gave me a chance too sink in that I have stage 3 bowel cancer and animea. The stress knowing  I've got too have a stoma bag on top of everything too.

The stoma bag will be done on the 28th October 2024 and 2 weeks after I start chemo.

The hardest part is going back and fourth too the hospital 

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    Hello Grace, 

    It sounds like you've had a really intense few weeks with the speed of your diagnosis. I can completely understand it must be so overwhelming and must feel like everything is moving so fast. It sounds though like your doctors and team are really on top of everything? Maybe it is good that things are moving this fast; to get you well as soon as possible; If they were to leave a lot of time between your diagnosis and treatment theres a chance you might get sicker .

    I can imagine it must be very scary hearing about the stoma. However there are excellent stoma nurses who specialise in helping people understand their stoma and how to manage it on a day to day basis; they see people like you every day and will provide great support in helping you get used to the stoma and teach you how to manage it on a day to day basis. You'll get used to it very quickly and the bags are very discreet, honestly. 

    Regarding travelling to hospital; is there any family member or friend who might be able to drive you some of the time to allow you to rest?

    It is all very overwhelming but try and take it day by day; it is great that you are on the path to getting better now

    My best wishes !

  • Offline in reply to LuciaM

    Hi Lucia,

    Thank you for your reply, yes all happened quickly. Well I have family who helped me out on scans and just getting the results, Has I can't talk too my family on how I feel I wanted too try this community chat

    Thank you again

  • Offline in reply to GraceD

    Hi GraceD 

    I know how you are feeling. I was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer I February. I had 6 weeks of intensive chemo then in June I had major surgery to remove the tumour. I have been fitted with a stoma which they say will be reversed at some point. It’s overwhelming isn’t it. I just take one day at a time getting used to my new normal and my new body. It’s not easy sometimes but I tell myself I was lucky it was found when it was. My stoma nurses are great and they have been really helpful so don’t ever feel you’re on your own. Keep going   

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