Welcome to the rollercoaster ride.......

[Tina_Basson]

Today I had my 19th radio session and my 5th bottle of chemo attatched,which now means I have only 9 radio sessions left and 1 more infusor next week this is the high point I am now nearing the end of this part of my journey.I have been so very lucky that up to this point I have had minimal problems with either of the radio or chemo treatments.Stupidly then comes the low point see the surgeon find out how these treatments have gone,have they shrunk this tumour,is this insidious cancer still only in the one spot[no mets] then and only then prepare to have the first operation you have ever had to remove a perfectally healthy bowel,seal off the rectal passage where this cancer is and prepare for life with a permanent colostomy bag.So I continue to ride the highs and lows and do so because I want to live and see my grandchildren one day,I want to care for my parents as they get older and I want to support others on this rollercoaster ride.So to all out there in the world of the big c I am so glad you are there,that you always listen,offer support and kind words,they are what makes this journey so much easier.Huge hugs and wishes to all stay strong,together this rollercoaster ride is a little less scary.Tina

[Maggie_Mae]

Tina...my Mom had the same operation as you and it was 100% successful. She even went on a cruise with the colostomy bag and never had a problem with it. I pray the same for you. You will live to see your Grandchildren and help your parents. Believe it and it will happen. Take Care, Jan

[Tina_Basson]

Hi Maggie Mae,Thankyou so much for your message of hope and positive thoughts.You have put a smile on my face and a new hope in my heart and for that I am truly thankful.I will now take your advice and believe.Huge hugs and wishes Tina

[wombat4]

I was at a function last week and chatting to a man who is a carer for his wife, and she had had the colostomy for the past 18 yrs, and although were in their 80s they both looked as if they had another 18yrs left in them. So at that rate Tina, you will still be around when the grand children develop into annoying teenagers. Wombat4

[Maggie_Mae]

Well Tina...since you have a smile on your face I'll tell you a little funny story. My Mom and Dad lived with us and our two boys for 12 years. My Dad passed away before my Mom but she had her own bed, sitting room and we turned our laundry room into a little kitchen for her. After she had her colostomy she would be sitting in her room and her bag would blow up with gas so she would just open a corner of the seal and let the gas out. Well....we would all be sitting in our family room watching t.v. and her air conditioner was hooked in with ours and her air intake would pick up the air in her room and deposit it into our family room. We would all accuse each other of "fluffing as I call it". We all laughed so hard about that. The actual colostomy itself is quite easy to take care of and is well hidden under your clothes. Just remember my Mother when your changing the bag. Have a wonderful day. Jan

[Tina_Basson]

Hi Jan, You succeeded the other day to put a smile on my face and after this story you have done it again. Little stories like these keep us going and make it easier to face the tough times,I was always taught laughter is the best medicine and I have once again had a good dose from your story. I will remember your mum when I am changing my bag and it will continue to bring a smile. Thankyou for sharing huge hugs and wishes to you Tina

[Tina_Basson]

Hi Wombat, Thanks for the positive story it really makes a difference,it helps to know people care and can pass on good stories as we so often hear negative stories.I will look forward to the day I meet my future grandchildren and very much enjoy seeing them become annoying teenagers.Thanks Wombat hugs and wishes.Tina