Living with side effects after bladder cancer treatment at 83?

Did you ever have BCG treatments?

Yes I did ! Several times, short cancer reprieves, but always came back!!

Living with side effects after major cancer treatment is incredibly challenging, especially when dealing with new conditions like rheumatoid arthritis alongside recovery. The journey through treatment and into survivorship brings its own set of difficulties that many in this community understand, and having excellent medical care makes such a difference during these complex times.

Its very traumatic! When you think of your cancer being healed, you certainly don’t think about one of your cures causing a new trauma like Rheumatoid Arthritis ! The relief of finding out you are cancer free is incredible and I am very thankful fir my care, but the discovery of a new malady is somewhat deflating!!

I've been 19 months negative on muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Suddenly, I'm strongly positive. TURB revealed big tumors which tested high grade positive. Next week I'm losing my bladder and prostate in a 5 hour surgery. Any post-surgery guidance is eagerly sought.

I would be glad to answer or discuss any questions I feel qualified to answer! Its so important to me to be able to discuss things that we have in common!! Im still learning things about my cancer and subsequent maladies connected with it!! Will never have all the answers but so willing to share my experience with anyone suffering the same thing!!

Curious about the stomach and bag. How long to get used to it? Tips 4 maintenence? How to side-sleep with bag? And, Gracias 4 your input.

Meant Stoma

Im a side sleeper too and my bag is right center! I sleep on my right side , so my night catheter bag just hangs over my side of the bed. Im used to it now after a year and its fine. I change my bag about every three days! Just follow all the directions about how to prep your stoma when changing your bag! My wife helps me just applying the bag, but do all the prep before I ask her to stick my bag on.. Have successfully changed my bag by myself and did fine, but its easier if you have a minutes worth of help! Let me know if I can answer any additional questions!! Anytime!

My gratitude, Joseph

Have a blessed Christmas Murry!

Hi I’m recovering from my bladder removal, dealing with the stoma and the bag is frustrating, but family support is a big help, my husband is changing my bag and I’m waiting the time when I will do it by myself.