Secondary peritoneal disease

Hi, I am not very used to these forums, so please forgive me if this comes across as the ramblings of a mad man. In June of last year I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, so in september I went under the knife and had it removed. Six weeks later in the surgeons office who then told me he had got it all... Imagine my relief, I was sent straight from his office for a blood test, and recieved a call the next day to say my CEA numbers were 68 and could I come in for a scan. Yep, you guessed it the cancer had come back. Met with the oncologist who gave me a prognosis of 3 years and started me on immunotherapy as part of palative care. All going well, had another scan in February, and have been told it has spread and I have peritoneal disease, rare in a man apparently. The oncologist has been in touch with surgeons in a hospital in the South East of England as apparently they are the experts in peritoneal disease to see if I am a good candidate for surgery, they want to hang on till after my next scan in 3 months. My concern is that I have read alot about peritoneal disease, the surgery is a big surgery, obviously they have to weigh up the risks with the benefits, but without it my outlook is bleak... think I read the length of time I have is reduced considerably. I get married on the 12th of this month, I have concerns around making my new bride a widow, luckily for me she is so supportive and just wants us to be together, she is my rock.... I know that I probably won't be a good candidate for the surgery as I am not fit, am overweight and have other underlying conditions, (COPD, type 2 diabeties), I am just wondering if anyone has any advice, experiences on what to expect ... thanks for reading the ramblings of a mad man.. Brett

  • Hello Brett

    I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis and all that you've been through over the past months. It's a cliche but it sounds as if it's been a real rollercoaster and it's understandable that you may have lots of questions and concerns about what the future holds. It's great to hear that you have such good support around you. 

    I'm unsure if we've anyone here who has had surgery for secondary peritoneal disease but if we have then hopefully they will share their experiences with you. 

    You're welcome to give our team of nurses a call to chat things through with them. I'm sure they will be able to offer some information, advice, and support. If you'd like to speak with them they're back in the office after the bank holiday weekend on 0808 800 4040 (Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm). 

    I want to send my best wishes to you and your partner for the 12th. I hope that the sun shines and you have a beautiful day making memories together. 

    Do keep in touch and let us know how you get on if you're able to. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator