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Hi, just found out I have stage 3 rectal cancer

Colorectal Cancer | Last Active: Sep 1, 2023 | Replies (21)

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@rioa21

I have been dealing with anal cancer since October 2022. I have had chemo and radiation for six weeks. The cancer is still there and has grown. I know I will need to have a colostomy. I am ready for it. I have fecal incontinence and the colostomy will give me a better quality of life. Immunotherapy is a possibility. APR surgery may be in my future. I have met with a surgeon and he does only one of these surgeries a year. Not good enough. I am coming to Mayo Clinic Jacksonville for a second opinion. Has anyone used a colorectal surgeon there? I’d love some recommendations and feedback. Anything you can tell me will be greatly appreciated.

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Replies to "I have been dealing with anal cancer since October 2022. I have had chemo and radiation..."

We traveled 2 1/2 hours to Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. It was so worth the trip! The surgeon we met with was extremely compassionate and put my mind to rest. He’s done many APR surgeries which was what we needed to hear. I am waiting for a cancellation to have a MRI and then I will move forward with the surgery. My fecal incontinence is so severe that I am welcoming a colostomy. I know there will be a period of adjustment, but I am ready. Please share your experience with APR surgery. I can use any and all advice.