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Recovering from right hemicolectomy, starting chemo
Colorectal Cancer | Last Active: Jun 3, 2021 | Replies (16)Comment receiving replies
I was diagnosed with colon cancer last month, had right colectomy 5 weeks ago & am starting chemo infusions with FolFox next week. Cancer was removed from colon but one out of 11 lymph nodes presented with cancer cells. Treatments will run every 2 weeks - one day in the treatment center and then they send me home with a pump for an additional 2 days. 3 to 6 months time frame. It seems very aggressive to me and the cancer they removed from my colon was about the size of a dime. The surgeon said I was lucky it was caught early however since it has spread to my lymph nodes it doesn't seem like it was caught early enough. I am apprehensive about the onset of treatment as I've enjoyed extraordinarily good health all my life. It is encouraging to know that at least some of you have not experienced the horrific side effects that they have warned me to expect and that may never fully go away. I'm to expect neuropathy, mouth sores, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue and susceptibility to infection. Can anyone tell me about their experiences with the pump and extended treatments beyond the typical 3 month period?
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Hi kismak1918, welcome to the Colorectal Cancer group. While you tumor that was removed was small, it spread to your lymph nodes. They want to use a thorough chemo regimen to kill the cancer cells that may be on the move through the lymph system and beyond.
My dad had the same chemo as you're about to have. The pump at home took some adjusting, mostly just remembering it was attached. My dad's worse symptom was the neuropathy because he also had type 2 diabetes. They watched that side effect closely so that it didn't get to a point that was irreversible. He had to use caution when touching hot or cold. The other side effects for him didn't happen or were mild and manageable. He regained his energy once treatment was completed. The neuropathy didn't completely go away, but got better.
But that's only the experience of one person. Everyone is different. Allow me to invite other members like @tressa @Paula_MAC2007 @musicflowers4u @flahertygang @virgo1952 @sundance6 and @craighatescancer to share their experiences with chemo (FolFox and other regimens).
In the meantime, you may also be interested in reading this discussion that @dianemarcia started:
- Colorectal cancer stage 3c: Need positive feedback https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/need-positive-feedback/
I'm glad you're in good health otherwise. This will help you throughout treatment. How was your recovery from surgery? What are you looking forward to after chemo?