Colon Cancer Support Group

Colorectal cancer, also called colon cancer or bowel cancer, includes cancerous growths in the colon, rectum and appendix. Many colorectal cancers are thought to arise from mushroom-like growths that are usually benign, but some may develop into cancer over time. The majority of the time, the diagnosis of localized colon cancer is through colonoscopy.

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Rhoni 10/18/2011

I saw the surgeon yesterday, and I'm scheduled for surgery next Tuesday. He is still.waiting for the result of a biopsy on a large polyp removed during my colonoscopy to determine the extent of the surgery. Unfortunately this particular polyp is on the opposite end of the colon from the cancer itself. He is hopeful that he will be able to preserve at least some of the colon even if the biopsy comes back positive. The bright spot in this ordeal is that the results of my CT Scan came back excellent, it has not spread to my liver. Now I don't know how to get past the fear of the surgery. How did you all manage it?

1Patriciann 10/18/2011

I was not facing it alone as I am now with my severe disability. I had my husband at my side all the way. That is how I managed and by taking it one small step at a time. Alone today I don't think I would manage if the cancer returned. With good support and taking it one small step at a time is the best way I think.

Gentle ((hugs))
:-) Patricia

deleted_user 10/19/2011

I'm am surprised a PET scan wasn't ordered. Pet scans are done in .color not black and white,and they have a much better resolution.As far as surgery I'm not to big on hospitals and being confined to a bed .Just have to keep positive additude and make sure you get out of bed after surgery and walk ,as hard as it seems walking is very important to your recovery.In my case the nurses were very helpful.

Karen822 10/19/2011

Hi Rhoni , I had my resection in May 2010. The doc removed 60% of my colon. I am someone who does not like hospitals and suffers from general anxiety. With that being said, my experience all around was not bad at all. The pain meds they give you in hosp. are wonderful at keeping you relaxed and pain free. I was not able to eat for about 5 days but do not worry.....you won't feel like eating anyway. I was nauscious. Like many have said after I think 2 days they get you up and walking. That is a big part of your recovery.
It took me awhile to get used to the change in bowel movements especially if I was going out. I knew I could not eat and then go right out. But I have since mastered it and my life is back to normal.

I wish you all the best and if you have any ?? I check in here on a regular basis. Do try not to worry if you can. I know sometimes it is easy said than done. Please keep us updated on how you are!! Big Hug Karen

kate1127 10/19/2011

Exactly, one small step at a time and with support. I also used prayer and meditation.

You can also go to counseling. I found this very helpful.

I also asked my doctor for an anti-anxiety med but decided I didn't need it after all, but it was an option.

Also, if you wake in the middle of the night (as I often did), come to this site, don't read statistics. They are confusing and are not uniquely designed for you.

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