Was looking at posts for support after my husbands op and thought maybe posting about our experience may be helpful. It has been a difficult and not a straightforward journey so far but all is now moving in the right direction

My previously well husband was diagnosed with complex kidney cancer on 15th December. His diagnosis followed what we thought was a urine infection followed by urine retention and haematuria (blood in urine). The diagnosis was a bombshell especially as we were told the tumour had invaded the renal vein and the hospital were unsure if it was inoperable. A long weeks wait followed where we received amazing support from the MacMillan team at our local hospital. We were very lucky and found out surgery was possible. Long story short, he had his operation on January 4th. He spent 2 days in critical care before moving to the ward and then another nine days in hospital. 

Since we have been home he has had a bit of a rocky ride. We were told the op was major but I think we both underestimated his recovery. He is extremely tired, has very little appetite and his bowel is still quite sluggish. Further complications included a brief stay back in hospital for a suspected pulmonary embolism. 

Despite all of this he is making progress. Today we have been out for a 20 minute gentle walk with the dog and life is very gradually assuming a hint of normality again. Pathology results are really promising and we have received great support. 

I’m not sure how typical our experience is but just wanted to share. Sorry for the essay. Xx