Colorectal cancer - living with a stoma that can't be reversed and worried my cancer will come back. I have flashbacks as well. Is this normal?

Hi I have a stoma that now cannot be reversed I spent 6.5 months in hospital with post op complications I have had various operations due to complications but I have this fear that my cancer will return and I feel guilty for what I put my family though after surgery 

I have had counselling and this did help for a period but I still have flashbacks is this normal??? 

  • Welcome to the Cancer Chat community Nicky-28, although I'm sorry about all that you have been through since having your stoma operation. It sounds like it's been very tough.

    I hope it helps to know that it's completely understandable, and natural, to be feeling this way Nicky. In fact, quite a lot of our members have contended with similar thoughts and feelings after finishing their treatment, so you are not alone, and hopefully some of them will stop by soon to offer their support and advice.

    I hope some of these resources we have in our life beyond cancer hub will be useful, but if it would help to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very supportive and will do all they can to address your questions and concerns. 

    We're thinking of you Nicky and sending you all our support at this very challenging time.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator