"Colon Cancer Care and Surgery"

Bowel Cancer Treatment. I take part in the 2 yearly Bowel Cancer Screening process. In the middle of February following a second abnormal result, they booked me in for Colonoscopy screening meeting at the beginning of March. I had no symptoms that I was aware of. I felt fit and well. A week later, I had a colonoscopy, during which I was gently informed by the doctor that a tumour had been found which required removal by surgery. After the colonoscopy, I was introduced to one of the specialist colorectal nurses, who together with the doctor explained what the most likely course of events would be. The following week I had a CT scan, which showed a possibility that there may be complications. This was mentally the worst period for me whilst waiting for other more detailed scans (a PET scan and an MRI) to be organised. These were arranged at weekly intervals, and once all the results were in, I was informed that cancer did not appear to have spread. I visited the hospital to meet the consultant, the specialist colorectal nurse, and a Macmillan nurse. They explained the process for the hemi-colectomy operation, and what could happen post operation, including what would happen if the post operation biopsy showed any signs of cancer cells in the lymph nodes. Another week passed, and I visited the hospital for pre-operation screening and tests. A couple of weeks later, I arrived at the Same Day Admissions Unit, and had the operation with a 5 day stay in Dilham Ward. The ward was clean, the beds and linen changed regularly at least daily, food and drink always available. I walked into the hospital 3 weeks ago with cancer that had been found by the screening process. 5 days later, I walked out of the hospital without cancer. Today my lovely specialist colorectal nurse informed me that no cancer cells had been found during the biopsy. Throughout this worrying 3 month period, every member of staff at the hospital - doctors, nurses, physios, cleaners, caterers, scanner teams - has treated me in a kind, considerate and honest manner. Their explanations were very clear. They made me feel as though I was the most important patient there. Every appointment was carried out on time, every phone call answered and responded to. Today is the first day of the rest of my life - no words that I can write will ever convey the gratitude I feel to you. Thank you.