One year later

[CatHair]

It has been just over a year since the surprise diagnosis. One year ago I was deep in fear and deep in research, trying to decide what kind of surgery to have, open to the universe as well as to scholarly publications. Thankfully, I found this forum, too. Accepted the fierce love and support of family and friends. Had a LAR, managed the temporary ileostomy, had the reversal, and enjoyed a full month off from work after each surgery, yay! Came out deliciously svelte and while I've put back on some of the weight (it is nice to be able to eat and drink, and have beer) I'm still down a dress size from before, which is good.

Went through the initial weirdnesses: post-anesthesia brain fog (took months to lift), adjusting to my new external as well as internal body contours, still tweaking fiber supplements and poop management meds, learning what to eat and what not to eat (shredded coconut: absolutely not). There are good days and bad days. But eight months out after the ileo reversal, if I am gong to travel or be busy or otherwise not desirous of interruption for a day, I pop a Costco Immodium or two and go about my business.

I've been scanned and scoped and poked and prodded and the results, one year later: "No evidence of active cancer." My doctors are pleased, and so am I. They will keep an eye on me for the next four years, per protocol.

What everyone told me about how having a life-threatening illness changes one's perspective, is true. It's a hard way to learn to not stress over so much, and to not take the love for granted...but a good lesson.

Aside from the farts and frequent poops, I feel great and look great. I am viewing the cancer as a freak occurrence that taught me a lesson. I hope it never comes back, not for me and not for anyone else.

Thanks to Peanut, Justin Case, and others who have been such encouraging help.

And now, to the throne, for it is that time of night...

xxoo
CatHair

[tarheelmom]

Thanks for the update. I am about 8 months behind you with a similar diagnosis and treatment. I'm still dealing with post reversal issues - love to wake up in the morning and have a poop fall out of my pjs - so it is great to hear that the new normal is ok- especially travel.

[AussieAssCancer]

Woohoo! So good to hear clear scans etc AND that the new 'normal' is more than manageable! We need lots of good news stories like this

[AussieAssCancer]

Woohoo! So good to hear clear scans etc AND that the new 'normal' is more than manageable! We need lots of good news stories like this

[DarknessEmbraced]

Wonderful news! Congratulations!*hugs*

[LaciK]

I have just completed treatments, so it is good to hear that there is a manageable "normal" in my future! Thanks for sharing and good health to you!

[AppleTree]

Congratulations! All sounds good and positive and you are moving onward. I suffered horrible diarrhea and now take 1 Imodium every 12 hours. It mostly works. I am maybe 6 months behind you. Right now follow-up chemo on hold because of accute hepatitis. I am not sure they will be able to do it at all. It looks like you did not have it either so especially good to read your report.

[AnnClare]

This is such great news - congratulations and thanks for sharing your story.

[justin case]

It has been just over a year since the surprise diagnosis. One year ago I was deep in fear and deep in research, trying to decide what kind of surgery to have, open to the universe as well as to scholarly publications. Thankfully, I found this forum, too. Accepted the fierce love and support of family and friends. Had a LAR, managed the temporary ileostomy, had the reversal, and enjoyed a full month off from work after each surgery, yay! Came out deliciously svelte and while I've put back on some of the weight (it is nice to be able to eat and drink, and have beer) I'm still down a dress size from before, which is good.

Went through the initial weirdnesses: post-anesthesia brain fog (took months to lift), adjusting to my new external as well as internal body contours, still tweaking fiber supplements and poop management meds, learning what to eat and what not to eat (shredded coconut: absolutely not). There are good days and bad days. But eight months out after the ileo reversal, if I am gong to travel or be busy or otherwise not desirous of interruption for a day, I pop a Costco Immodium or two and go about my business.

I've been scanned and scoped and poked and prodded and the results, one year later: "No evidence of active cancer." My doctors are pleased, and so am I. They will keep an eye on me for the next four years, per protocol.

What everyone told me about how having a life-threatening illness changes one's perspective, is true. It's a hard way to learn to not stress over so much, and to not take the love for granted...but a good lesson.

Aside from the farts and frequent poops, I feel great and look great. I am viewing the cancer as a freak occurrence that taught me a lesson. I hope it never comes back, not for me and not for anyone else.

Thanks to Peanut, Justin Case, and others who have been such encouraging help.

And now, to the throne, for it is that time of night...

xxoo
CatHair

Thank you for not stressing too much, it's a learning experience ! I'm going on 4 and a half years after reversal, and drinking a few beers! Planning on retirement at 52, 7 years after diagnosis ! There is a possibility, I will strangle my employer, and get free room, medical, and housing for the rest of my life, butt I like beer too much !
Bro nut

[bitchslapped]

For CatHair that is good to hear.

For justin case, ahem.

Planning on retirement at 52, 7 years after diagnosis ! There is a possibility, I will strangle my employer, and get free room, medical, and housing for the rest of my life, butt I like beer too much !

52? Have you gotten a head start on those beers?

Best Wishes
BS

[justin case]

For CatHair that is good to hear.

For justin case, ahem.

Planning on retirement at 52, 7 years after diagnosis ! There is a possibility, I will strangle my employer, and get free room, medical, and housing for the rest of my life, butt I like beer too much !

52? Have you gotten a head start on those beers?

Best Wishes
BS

I haven't attached a head funnel just yet Your only as young as you feel darling !
Bro Nut

[CatHair]

Bro Nut, I am enjoying a St. Arnold's Oktoberfest right now!

[Buckeye]

I am due for my 1 year colonoscopy and ct scan in October. Have had several probeing and small scopes so far. Everything looks great . I have been very fortunate and do not have urgency to bad. I can usually "hold it" till I find a bathroom. I have had to since I drive a semi for ups . I do go 5 to 7 times a day. I manage my life and am generally able to do what I want. Getting a little nervous about my upcoming test though.

[L2saint]

Congratulations, and thank you for sharing your outcome!

I'm coming up on the one year anniversary of my surgery (September 8, 2015). Had my ileostomy reversed back in April. I am happy to report that I have had days where I don't think about poop. I go in the morning, and maybe again at night after dinner, which was normal for me Before Cancer (BC). I do find that the normal days don't last. I maybe get 3-4 on a good week, and the rest of the time I'm back to fighting the cycle of constipation vs. diarrhea. Most common problem is the sensation of not getting it all out, and having to go back for multiple rounds, which results in the dreaded sore ass from too much wiping. If I get off my routine, don't eat enough fiber, over-indulge in booze, don't drink enough water, etc I pay for it. Also, stress can cause issues. If I don't sleep well, don't feel comfortable about using the bathroom (at someone's house, or traveling, etc) it causes problems. I guess that happens to most people, it's just that I'm more sensitive to it now.

[Pita]

Thanks for sharing, so nice to read about good news.