Rare cancer diagnoses appendix and PMP

[scorpio2318]

My wife was diagnosed in early 2024 with at first thought was ovarian cancer. surgery within 7 days found it wasnt ovarian cancer but a rare appendix cancer with cancerous mucous theoughout the abdoman and alsp peritineal cancer, they removed the appendix and 2 kg of mucin and refererrd her to Professor Cherry Koh at Chris Obrien lifestyle hospital. another surgery after 5 rounds of chemo (which was not working) where they removed more mucin, and ended up with an illeostomy.  Moving forward a major surgery MOAS, PMP and Hipecc was scheduled for 7th November at the RPA as there are only two places in NSW that can perform this surgery and it has to done in a public hospital. 5 weeks before the planned surgery she ended up with what they first though was a blocked bowel and was admitted to the Mater hospital in Newcastle. After a week of trying to clear it they found that it was actually a twisted bowel and she was transferred bt ambulance to Chris Obrien Lifestyle for emergency surgery where they removed 1.8 mtrs of small bowel as it had died. 4 days later more surgery to reconnect the bowel and closr the abdomen toatal days in hospital 26 days. we are home now but she is very frail and is extremely fatigued and tired. Now she has to work on getting fit, put weight back on ready for the big op originally planned. I think she has ended up with PTDS as she in now very afraid of any procedure she has to have which concerns me looking forward to what is to come. We cant thank our surgeons and staff at Chris Obriens enough. Cancer council have offered lots of support and I would like to thank them also.

Hoping that 2025 wil bring better health and wishing the same to all on this page, be it a patient or carer as we all have to be there for each other. 

[sch]

I'm sorry to hear what you and your wife went through.

Well, the year is almost over, so good riddance to 2024.

Here is hoping you have a better year next year.

I was never diagnosed with PTSD, but certainly had some uncomfortable memories associated with past medical experiences.

It's worth seeing a psychologist. Over time, it gets easier.

[Maddi_CCNSW]

Hello scorpio2318

It sounds like you and your wife have been through a lot throughout your 2024. I'm pleased that you've found the support that was provided by the Cancer Council has been helpful.  Please if you or your wife continue to struggle, please done hesitate to contact our 13 11 20 Support Line.  

I hope that 2025 is a good year for you and your wife.

[Cindi54]

@scorpio2318,

I just want to say my heart goes out to you both it must be so, so hard for you and your wife.

Please try to get counseling ( together as its hard for you too) it will help her PTSD and worries, the unknown can be so scary, and please tell her to never give up hope,  and best not to look up stuff on Dr. Google as so much isn't true and also outdated, it just scares you.

Stick to sites like this Cancer council ones,&  authentic ones.

Wishing and hoping for the best outcome for your wife, just remember to never give up hope, & keep pushing as so much can be done now to help us all.

Cindi xx