I did the stick test to screen for bowel cancer that came in the post after my 60th birthday. I was called for colonoscopy on Monday and told afterwards that I will need surgery and have to have a colostomy bag for up to a year and possibly longer if the bowel doesn't heal. Anybody's worst nightmare.

Apart from a bit of blood in my poo I have no symptoms and am facing possibly life with a bag.

How does anyone cope with living with it?

I wish I had never sent the test back. I am seriously considering pretending I hadn't and just get on with life.

What can I expect to happen if I ignore it.