Ironically since deciding to create this site, run ed.4 of the show and getting in touch with local support groups so I can share their info to patients, I became a patient. again.
I thought I was done, thought I’d had my “go” – 1 in 2 people get cancer nowadays, lucky me I’m 1 person with 2!
This time it is easier for so many reasons:
- I don’t “feel” ill
- I am physically the strongest I’ve ever been
- What they found was small
- My new consultant & team (new hospital) are lovely
- I had a dry run…
This time it is worse for a few reasons:
- It really came as a bolt out of the blue, from high grade dysplasia to cancer within 4 weeks
- We know about my lynch syndrome, which means the odds are stacked it will happen again
- My whole large bowel is coming out to prevent recurrance
- I will come out the other side with an ilieostomy and stoma
I’ve asked more questions this time, and feel more in control, yet it has taken me a while to realise I’m grieving. I’ve ignored what is happening, I’ve gotten angry and I have cried!
The most important thing is that we have kept a sense of humour about it. I was told by a friend that I should do some blogs about this journey, not sure if that was because of our warped sense of humour, or to help people.
Either way, with 6-12 week recovery time coming up I will have time on my hands and may just do that.
For now, here is a bit about lynch syndrome, the reason why my Mr B can’t bear for me to live my life in constant fear…
Lynch syndrome (LS) is a condition that can run in families. LS is also known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). It is caused by an alteration in a gene called a mismatch repair gene.
LS doesn’t cause any symptoms. But people with LS have an increased risk of developing bowel cancer, womb cancer and some other cancers. If your family has a history of developing these cancers when they are under 50 years old, it is possible they have the altered gene that causes LS.
If you are worried about your family history, talk to your GP. They may refer you for genetic testing or recommend you have regular screening for some cancers. If you have LS, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel and womb cancer. If you develop any symptoms, you will need to get them checked by a doctor.
Having LS, and knowing you are at increased risk of cancer, can be difficult. There is lots of support available for you.
Up Yer Bum : bowel cancer awareness & charity events 