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Newly diagnosed with cancerous rectal polyp

Reyney
Offline

I have been put forward for Papillon (internal Radoitherapy), but now told I will need 5 weeks of external beam radiotherapy 5 days per week. I was also offered a total removal of Rectum, close off the anus and to have a Colostomy Stoma - reading side effects from each of these procedures, has anybody been through the same - I havent started treatment yet but scared I will make the wrong decision 

  • Hello Reyney

    I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis and that you're now facing decisions about your treatment. It's understandable that this is a difficult time and natural that you want to make sure you make the right choice for you. 

    I know that we have had members here in the Cancer Chat community who have had colostomy surgery. You'll be able to find some of those posts using the forum search function to look for the term "colostomy". Hopefully some of those members who have similar experiences will post to share their stories with you but you might also want to have a look at the Bowel Cancer UK website. I'm sure you'll be able to connect with others who have been through this treatment through some of their support services. 

    We have information about treatment for rectal cancer on our website which may be of help but if you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I'm sure they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. 

    Keep in touch Reyney and let us know how you get on. We're here to listen and will do our best to support you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Hi Jenn

    Thank you so much for your reply, I wish I hadn't been given an option to be honest. 

    I may actually speak to one of your nurses about my concerns and also look to link in with others who have had a colostomy.

    Thank you for your help 

    Shirley

  • in reply to Reyney

    Hello Shirley

    I know others have previously commented that they wish they hadn't been given options. It's difficult to know what to do for the best. 

    Do have a chat with one of our nurses for some external advice and support but if you've been allocated a clinical nurse specialist at the hospital then I'd suggest talking to them about your concerns as well. Hopefully between all the health professionals available to you, you will feel reassured that you're making the right decision for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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