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Just diagnosed with bladder cancer: Feeling overwhelmed
I had blood in urine went to emergency room. After CT Scan they said I had 3 tumors on my bladder largest one 3.1cm. 5 days later Urologist removed tumors. Path report said stage 1 or 2 but needed more testing. I’m scheduled for 2nd surgery June 2, 2026 to see how deep into the bladder wall the cancer has invaded. Does all this sound normal? No one in my family has ever had bladder cancer. I am a 74 year old woman and live alone as I lost my beloved husband 6 years ago. I’ve done a little research on the internet but I find myself feeling so overwhelmed and depressed. Needless to say, I am very scared.
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@colleenyoung Following bladder removal (and prostate), I have an ileal conduit. Apart from the obvious inconveniences, I've done terrific and have never second guessed my decision for surgery.
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3 Reactions@gemdoc25 it’s my understanding that there are several factors that affect the BCG vs GEM/DOC decision, and this is from the Anschutz Cancer Center at the University of Colorado Hospital. First, the bio marker test is not considered conclusive, and second BCG is the gold standard and sometimes it’s required before you can try a newer treatment approach. That’s why BCG is normally the go-to approach.
@dks2500 , I know, but there is a lot of evidence that Gem/Doce works well. A very large study whose name I forget is in progress.
I am pleased that thanks to Vesta, I was not put on BCG, which would have been a waste of time. Gem/Doce treatment is no big deal with few if any side effects and so far is working for me.
Best regards.
@gemdoc25 I’m very happy that Gem/Doce is working well for you. Best wishes going forward.
@rtowns, welcome. Do you know what type and stage of bladder cancer you have? What treatment plan is being recommended?
And, most importantly, how are you doing?
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1 ReactionI am waiting on the pathology for final results. But my guess stage 2. Treatment has not been mentioned yet hopefully this week i will know more.
I am in some pain while urinating and blood is still present. How about you?
Don’t be afraid. I had the same thing 9 years ago and have been cancer free all those years. I have a scan yearly and so far so good
My cancer was about to break the wall in the bladder so to save my life I opted to have my bladder and prostate removed.
I wear a urine bag and it’s second nature to me now. At first I was in shock not knowing what to expect but gradually got used to it.
If you have to go that route I will be more than happy to give you tips on how to make the adjustment and things you can do to make life better .
Good luck which ever way you proceed. Jazzman
Hi there:
I’m in the same boat. I had a radical cystectomy after a couple of months of chemo. I also got immunotherapy, but had to stop that because of side effects (diarrhea). It was October 1 last year. I opted for a urostomy, and have had no trouble with it once I figured it out after a couple of weeks. There is a lot of good support here as you go through this devastating process. I’m coming out the other side gradually and due for a scan in August. So far I have “No Evidence of Disease (NED)”. If you have a support person who can go with you to these appointments, you’ll find it very helpful. They can remember things that you might forget. Also, to have someone there on your side is comforting.
I wish you the best as you go through this reach out if you need anything that we can do to help you
Karen