After experiencing some symptoms, I was officially diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in July 2019.
Since then, I eventually opted for a partial colectomy, chemo and immunotherapy. I’m now on pain medication.
I kept having stomach pain and frequent bowel movements. I found blood in my stool. I had originally thought it was piles as I had a history of it.
I couldn’t bear the stomach pain anymore and went to see my doctor. They found a tumor in my colon, and it was already starting to spread.
I was overcome with emotions when I found out about my diagnosis. There were a lot of terms of explanations, and it felt overwhelming and confusing. I was barely listening to the doctors.
My son had to explain it a few times for me to understand what was going on. I was powerless.
After my diagnosis, I cut out alcohol entirely. I also toned down on my smoking frequency.
My doctor’s recommendations for me included a
- Partial colectomy (removal of a part of the colon)
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
which I proceeded with. Deciding on my treatment did leave me feeling very anxious, discouraged and scared.
The medication I took was
I’ve since completed treatment but am now on pain medication.
As a result of the cancer treatments, I struggled with several side effects, including fatigue and mucositis. I also found myself having the flu very often. I took prescribed medication to cope with these side effects.
Other than cutting back on my alcohol intake, I’ve been eating a healthier diet.
It was a painful journey. I was looking forward to the end of treatment. I often thought about giving up. But I’d like to live and see my son get married.
As for plans for the near future, I would like to do more gardening. I’ve started going back to yoga. I’d like to get a cat but my husband needs some convincing on that matter.
Pain was my biggest fear. I just wanted the pain to stop. I was incredibly tired throughout the process and I don’t think I’ve been the same since, but my biggest fear was the side effects and the trouble they gave.
I tried taking medication. I ate healthier, and aside from the occasional glass of wine I stayed away from the hard liquor. I had to give up spicy food.
Now that it’s been several years since my diagnosis, I feel rather neutral.
It would be a difficult process. Go through the course. At the end of the day it will be worth it.
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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