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Stage IV rectal cancer

Bumnomore
Bumnomore CSN Member Posts: 1 *
in Colorectal Cancer #1

I was diagnosed officially in Aug 2024. But my PCP felt the mass during a digital exam she preformed and due to pain 4 days after my 50th birthday. I have had 12 rounds of chemo and 28 rounds of radiation. I also had surgery in Nov 2025 due to pain and other unpleasant symptoms. It’s daunting having stage iv. The tumor was 2.4 cm from the outside world and the size of a lemon. There were several nodules in my lungs and a spot on my liver. I have an excellent oncologist. She has done this for many many years. I know she’s trying to manage my expectations but it’s depressing hearing how treatment is for palliative care; that surgery isn’t usually done for stage iv because it will not be curative. My surgery was done for QOL. Idk. I’m just venting I guess. It’s difficult contemplating my own mortality. I try to be positive Polly but there are days and nights, like tonight, where negative Nancy takes over.

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Comments

  • samuelyan
    samuelyan CSN Member Posts: 1 *
    #2

    what’s other alternative therapy, such as IV high dose vitamin C, you have tried?

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  • Pomona
    Pomona CSN Member Posts: 15 Member
    #3

    I was diagnosed in 2023 with Stage IV. I did have surgery (including getting an ileostomy). Did one extended round of chemo after surgery (did the normal 12 rounds but decided to continue for a certain length of time, but at long intervals between treatments till I got comfortable with the idea of stopping).

    Went for just over year without any treatments needed.

    But recently had 5 radiation treatment and getting ready for another 12 rounds of chemo.

    My oncologist from the beginning said that colon cancer cannot be cured but it can be managed.

    It tough but I just keep saying that I'll get through it.

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  • bibliophile
    bibliophile CSN Member Posts: 125 Member
    #4

    Sorry to hear, Bumnomore. I was diagnosed at 46yo with a 5 cm tumor July 2023 and lymph node and perineural invasion and haven't been NED until 3 weeks ago after 3 surgeries and 2 rounds of chemo for mets to lung, ovary, peritoneal lining, and recurrences in my colon. But I have an oncologist who has been willing to support surgeries, which are my best chance at longer survival. Do you have an option for a second opinion? Either way, we are here if you just need to talk!

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