Really a great challenge which all of us are forced to cope up with.Though mine was a rectal cancer which was placed in the lower end ,the radiation was almost similar to anal cancer and the after effects are similar.As it is a descending colon J pouch the fragmentation and frequency made me give up my active Ob Gyn practice.The initial years there was pain,irritation and burning sensation of the radiated area.Now that has reduced as it is seventh year in remission.As you said my bed is close to the toilet.Inspite of it accidents do happen frequently.Being on a diaper 24/7 is making the area sore. Like babies , knowingly it is very difficult to empty the bowel and continue to work or sleep.Most of the nights I am in and out of toilet It is seven years since I have slept continuously for an hour..
Maybe it is the price to pay for being alive but I count my blessing as,having a toilet close to the bed room with 24 hours water supply .Imagine living in that part of the world which has no toilets or water..Only this thought has motivated me to accept my challenges with peace and gratitude.
Only counting our blessings and practicing gratitude helps to live in a reasonable level of peace of mind,otherwise I would have gone insane by sitting at home with no professional work.
We are all there to share your concerns.Nobody can take your pain but we are willing to hold your hands virtually and pass on our strength to you through thoughts,words and prayers.God bless