Struggling with watch and wait

Recently had treatment for rectal cancer stage 3b. Treatment finished in March 2026  

Now on the watch and wait regime but finding it difficult as my tests and appointments are all done a month apart so infact I am actually having something done once a month. Whether it's blood tests,  MRI, CT, sigmoidoscopy or a visit to the specialist. I often find myself disappointed when the post arrives and I don't have my next appointment for a test or consultation. Struggling a little I must admit. Finally plucked up the courage to go to a Maggies centre at my local hospital.  While I have family and friends I often wonder if I start to talk about cancer do they just think I should be grateful rather than worried about it.

  • Hello Lindyloo38

    I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis and that since completing active treatment earlier this year, you now find yourself struggling with the ongoing battery of tests, scans and appointments. I can assure you that you are not alone in feeling this way. 

    Scanxiety is a real phenomena and for many people it's only once active treatment is finished that the enormity of the diagnosis and all that they have been through really begins to hit home. It's good to hear that you've been to your local Maggie's centre. I know you will be able to access support from their volunteers, staff and other patients there and hopefully, as time goes on, you'll begin to feel more settled about all that you've been through. 

    I'd also say that if you still have contact with your specialist cancer nurse, then do let them know about the toll that the watch and wait regime is taking on you. Hopefully they can give you some reassurance. 

    If you'd like to chat with one of our nurses about things, then 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. They're available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Sending my best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Thanks Jenn for your reply.  I know that there are plenty of support groups just like you but it is often just plucking up the courage to join in.  Cancer is a very lonely disease.  You get cancer but not everyone has the same treatment.  When treatment is finished you expect to get back to normal and so does everyone else, so when you don't it can be hard on everyone.  I guess I'm trying to say is that this bit, the after bit is the hardest part. 

  • Hi Lindyloo38.  I know what you mean.  After treatment has finished and people expect you to get back to 'normal'.  Well it never will be the same ,it will be a new normal and that is very hard to do.  Cancer is very lonely I think like you said.  If you don't want to join a support group in person.  Penny Brohn do sessions about moving on after treatment online zoom.  They do lots of helpful sessions, they are in Bristol so if you are near, you can go in.  I live in the Midlands so do all my sessions online.  They do clinical hypnotherapy online on a Thursday, I find this very relaxing.  I haven't really plucked up the courage to go to a meeting with other people in person yet, building myself up to it.  I am happy to chat.

    Lee x