"On a slightly different note-is it normal to live in almost constant fear of it returning and of suspecting that every illness/pain is due to it returning?"

I suspect that yes it is normal  -  maybe not so much constant fear, but certainly always at back of mind if have symptoms that COULD be cancer. I've had tongue (nearly 6 years ago) and prostate (nearly 3 years ago), so stomach problems etc and I think the worst. 

The plus side is that I know enough to convince GPs to refer me to specialists if I consider it necessary. Awaiting such referral right now. 

On main point, I am a little surprised that a lack of research papers. 

Good luck.

HI DJ48

Thanks for your honesty and I'm sorry to hear what you too have been through. It is reassuring to me that I'm not alone in feeling like this. It's not something I discuss with family & friends for many reasons.

So, thank you for taking time out to reply to my post.

I wish you all the best,

Carole

HI DJ48

Thanks for your honesty and I'm sorry to hear what you too have been through. It is reassuring to me that I'm not alone in feeling like this. It's not something I discuss with family & friends for many reasons.

So, thank you for taking time out to reply to my post.

I wish you all the best,

Carole

No problem. And to you. DJ