Stage IV rectal cancer

Bumnomore

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.

samuelyan

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

Pomona

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.