Rectal Cancer Suvivor-Question

I'll try to make a long story short. Oct 31, 2003 husband was dx with rectal cancer. Dr told us he would have 6 wks chemo and rad, rest time to recoup and then surgery which would result in rectum being removed and permanent colostomy. Dr said 0% chance of not having the above surgery and colostomy.
Did the chemo(Xeloda) and rad. Took time off. Went for pre-op colonoscopy February 13, 2003. Showed tumor had shrunk from two large grape size to flat and size of a dime. New surgery would be Transanal Excision through the rectum. Would keep the rectum and no colostomy if Dr could get clean margins. February 25 had surgery. All went well. Today had follow up with doctor for results of biopsy taken on the 25th. No signs of cancer. Dr wants my husband to have more chemo in a few weeks after he has healed from surgery. My reason for posting here is to let everyone know there is always hope. Our belief in GOD, each other, family and friends (and the new ones on message boards) helped us get through this trying time.

My husband would like me to ask anyone if they have had this surgery and what he can to about his rectum itching now that it is healing? Any advise would be appreciated.

Also, I feel I must pass this along. My husband and I have always been believers in GOD. But we felt that staying home and saying "I believe" was enough. For us thats not enough anymore. We feel that GOD intends us to worship in his house, live our daily lives as christians, treat others well and testify to our belief. I know some of you might think we started believing this today, but thats not the case. Even when we thought my husband would end up with a colostomy, our lives changed because all we prayed for was life, anyway GOD chose to give it. We trusted that GOD would see us through (in his way), and he has. Prayer is a strong thing and mine will be with all of you.