Bladder Cancer Group: Introduce yourself and connect with others
Welcome to the Bladder Cancer support group on Mayo Clinic Connect.
This is a welcoming, safe place where you can meet people living with bladder cancer or caring for someone with bladder cancer. Let’s learn from each other and share stories about living well with cancer, coping with the challenges and offering tips.
Feel free to browse the topics, use the group search to find answers to your questions or start a new discussion.
Pull up a chair. Let’s start with introductions.
What type of bladder cancer were you diagnosed with? What treatments have you had? How are you doing?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Bladder Cancer Support Group.
I was treated unsuccessfully for UTIs for 3 months before I had a CT scan that found a large tumor. I had that removed, (a 2nd tumor was found at that time.) I will be having the ddNVAC for eight weeks starting asap, followed by surgery. Trying to stay one procedure at a time, I would appreciate help knowing what to expect with that chemo regimen and antidotes to alleviate side effects. (I’m nervous so keep information gentle.)
@walleyebob, if you haven't done so already, you can request a second opinion from Mayo Clinic by calling them or filling out the online form. You can get started here: http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63
Do you ice fish too?
Hi @buena, Dave. Welcome. I encourage you to join one of the BCG-related discussions here:
- My journey with Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) treatment https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/first-bcg-treatment/
See all: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/bladder-cancer/?search=BCG#discussion-listview
You might find this discussion from the Prostate Cancer group helpful with respect to incontinence. The guys have some great tips:
- Post Op Recommendations https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/post-op-recommendations/
How many BCG treatments are part of your plan?
Hi colleenyoung I did not know that I will do so and thank you so much for the information. The more I search for bc info the more I keep being directed to Mayo Clinic. Out of 125 best bc hospitals NEWS WEEK in 2023 ranked mayo clinic in rochester minn #1. I do truly love to fish for walleye and perch, ice fishing is the best time to fish for perch in sd, and do get out a dozen times a year. iam ready to hit the water. I wish all on this chat site a smooth road on your journey. and be assured you are all in my prayers 🙂
Thanks very much. Really appreciate the site you moderate. I begin six weeks of BCG treatments March 31. Wondering what to expect by way of side effects inasmuch as our long Minnesota winter is moderating and the 2025 golf season is about to begin. We generally launch our season mid April. I'm wondering if I'll be able to play 18 holes. Also wondering if the treatments will exaggerate the incontinence I've had as a result of prostate cancer surgery.
Hi @quirina, how did your first BCG treatment go? How are you doing?
I send sincere sympathy. I am returning to Rochester today for another test and meeting with an oncologist. Neither were mentioned at my previous appointment and I understand your worry, this is so tough. Big hugs of encouragement as you go forward in treatments.
I was diagnosed in 2020 with a tumor in my bladder. It was surgically removed. I have undergone many follow up minor surgeries to remove reoccurring cancer cells. I was treated with Gemzar for a year and a half until May of 2024. There was no cancer present again until December of 2024. The cancer returned as a high grade cancer, still non-invasive. I had two more surgeries and am about to start BCG therapy.
I hope and pray that your BCG treatments go well! Will be thinking of you. Rest & drink plenty of fluids after your treatment.
Thanks so much for the welcome and advice. Like everyone else I have a lot of anxiety.