I was diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer in October 2023. The most frustrating part is that I could have been diagnosed a year earlier (and most likely at an earlier stage) if the GP I saw had been more focused on my symptoms and thought harder when I asked her "could I have bowel cancer?". But we can't dwell on the past and I have more important things to get on with!
I had been experiencing abdominal pain and pain when going to the toilet for a few weeks when I first visited by GP in August 2022, but it wasn't until I had bleeding the following year (and saw a new GP) that I was referred for a colonoscopy. My GP thought it would most likely be haemorrhoids as I had two young girls (aged 1 and 3 at diagnosis). I remember waking up from the colonoscopy and everyone was so friendly. It wasn't until I've reflected later that I realise they would have known what was found and felt sorry for me. I was then taken to a room where my husband was waiting. I realised at this point that something wasn't right. While we waited for the specialist, my husband filled me in that he'd been told that he needed to be with me because they needed to give me some news and it wasn't good. The specialist then confirmed they'd found a 5cm tumour in my rectum. Weirdly, I can't remember hearing the word "cancer" mentioned, but knew immediately what it meant.
In those early days, I couldn't look at my girls without crying. Six months on I look at them and remember why I'm putting myself through the awful treatment. I've not done six months of chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy and am scheduled for surgery in three weeks for a ULAR and temporary ileostomy which may also include a hysterectomy. I still have days of "why me?" but mostly just get on with it and get through one step at a time. One of the hardest parts has been coming to terms with not having a third baby. The treatment has put me into premature menopause and due to my cancer being aggressive I wasn't able to freeze embryos before it began. I am however so grateful for my two beautiful girls and my husband. We are so lucky in lots of ways.
I'm determined to beat this thing, for my family and for myself. I have so many adventures ahead of me!
My one piece of advice for others:
Trust your gut. If something doesn't seem right push until you get some answers. Don't feel silly for requesting a colonoscopy. It's a very simple, straightforward procedure and may just save your life. For younger women being diagnosed with rectal cancer - my advice is to do research into fertility preservation if you plan on having children (or more children). I found the support in this area lacking. There are options but you need to move quickly. This should be the first discussion had with younger women!