first post

[cancer_sucks]

I have been following this board since December 2013 when my Dad was diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer. When he was first diagnosed my world was turned upside down and reading a lot of the post on here helped me to realize I wasn't alone. My Dad has done the 5 weeks of chemo/radiation with excellence tumor response on his most recent sigmoid ultrasound, and is now scheduled for LAR surgery on April 14, 2014. Is there any advice that anyone can give so I know what to expect, ways to help make recovery easier for my Dad? Thanks in advance!!

[Val*pal]

I can't give you any advice, but I do want to welcome you to the Club - one that no one wants to join.

You will be able to get a lot of info here and a great deal of support.

Best wishes for your dad's continuing good recovery through treatment.

[Rob in PA]

Not much advice leading up to the surgery. Keep in touch with us after the surgery and let us know how it is going...or not going and I'm sure we can help you with specific issues.

Best to your Dad. Take lipbalm, his lips will get dry after surgery. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Have him rest and get ready for the next battle....assuming he is having post LAR chemo?

Rob

[justin case]

My, that is a loaded question. Is your dad intending on having a temporary ostomy? Will he be scheduled for chemo ? And what are your doctors suggestions. Regarding just the surgery, rest and avoid lifting any thing for a good 3 weeks. Warm bathes and good nutrition, along with hydration are very important. Ensure can be a real benefit, if eating is not agreeable. By all means follow the surgeon's post operative instructions. After about 4 or 6 weeks, we might be of real benefit.
Regards,
Michael

[ASTEPHENS33]

I found lying down after surgery was difficult. I ended up in a recliner chair, where I slept and stayed most of the day. I also had a riser on the toilet, to minimize the abdominal strain getting up and down.