I have survived bowel cancer stage 1 by having my large bowel removed in July 2014. The drastic surgery I opted for has given me permanent re plumbing and due to surgery complications almost killed me with a long stint in intensive care.....but I have since recovered and have worked really hard to make sure I look at the positives. The cancer was contained and the new digestive system is not changing the way I choose to live my life. I thought I had survived the worst that was in store for me.. Tests have showed - although currently cancer free- I am still at high risk of developing other types of digestive cancers and I can do nothing more than sit and wait for scan results every 6 months for the rest of my life. I am a " take the bull by the horns kinda girl." This sit back and wait approach is leaving me feeling helpless, vulnerable and anxious. I am posting here as I feel isolated. I don't want to discuss this feeling of dread and anxiety with my husband or family as I don't want to burden them. I feel like they have already suffered just as much as me due to this insidious disease. I would like to hear from people who have been through cancer - what strategies you have used to help your mind to cope with fear and helplessness that cancer insights. ... View more