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Were you exposed to any of the classic bladder cancer risk factors?
Bladder Cancer | Last Active: Mar 10 9:47am | Replies (32)Comment receiving replies
You are very sweet. I'm happy to share. I know it helps to learn about others going through it. Yes, I had chemo for three months and then a radical cystectomy in Nov 2024. I was young and healthy enough to have a neobladder option so that's what I did. I was not given another option on the RC though. It was a larger muscle invasive tumor so the bladder had to be removed. All of the doctors I consulted with agreed.
I did a year of immunotherapy after the surgery. I finished that in late November. I go back in March for another round of quarterly scans. I feel great though. Very thankful for my entire medical team.
I hope everything goes well for you tomorrow!! I will say a prayer. 🙏 Let me know how it goes please.
Replies to "@deidre77 You are very sweet. I'm happy to share. I know it helps to learn about..."
Hi again,
With reference to your experience, you certainly have gone through quite a lot.
If I may ask, how did you emotionally cope when you had no other choice but to have a neobladder? How did it affect your every-day life once you became accustomed to this transition?
I assume you must have had a very strong support system. Somehow, I sense you have a tremendous inner fortitude and from what you say, have adjusted very well and are living a productive and good life. Of course, there must have been some stumbling blocks along the way which is to be expected but apparently those were surmounted.
Thank you for sharing. May you continue to be well and enjoy your life.
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@jowilliams1
Thank you for your prayer - it worked.
I found the first BCG instillation very easy; subsequently - neither blood nor burning upon urination.
Unfortunately, since there had been a huge snowstorm a few days ago and mounds of snow/ice left as a present, upon exiting the car I fell onto a large bank of hardened snow. Since there was no one around at the time, I struggled mightily (hmm... a slight exaggeration) and finally managed to stand. Now, I have the physical aches and pains as a reminder of that visit.
At any rate, this is only the beginning of what I know will be a long and arduous journey so I do need to mentally and emotionally prepare myself. Having suffered from major unipolar depression in the distant past, I am thankful for the good people (like yourself) in this group who lend their much-needed support and demonstrate courage and determination which I hope to emulate.
To all the member of this group, I send my sincere best wishes.