I was found to have colon cancer a year ago at 72yo. I was stage 4 as the cancer was also found in a lymph node. Scans also showed a lung nodule that was suspected to be metastasized cancer from the colon.
I went straight to colon resection surgery. I was very hopeful that I would not be in need of a bag afterwards or even a temporary one. My doctor was confident that one would not be needed which proved to be the case.
I recovered best possible at home with no help whatsoever for seven weeks and then returned for Lung wedge resection of my right lower lung area.
I will say that colon resection is a far easier recovery as compared to the lung. The majority of pain in both was during the hospital stay, not so much after coming home. You lay down, nap, sleep, eat, go to the bathroom and repeat.
Plan to go nowhere except for your follow-up appointment. No house chores or grocery shopping. Get everything you need before going to the hospital for your surgery. Stock up and be prepared to rest. Clear your mind of everything else that may be going on and concentrate on only you.
That's it.
My concerns and worry over doing this alone, totally alone, not even a visitor was unfounded. I got along just fine.
You will be eating different so pre-plan for that. You won't be cooking as normal. Talk to your doctor about meals after surgery and research online.
We are always more resilient in adversity than we give ourselves credit for. Be strong. Be determined. Best wishes to you!