How do I cope after unexpected colon cancer diagnosis during surgery?

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DR

Community Member

2 months ago

Hi first post. All summer (5/18 - 8/20) I was treated for diverticulitis with abcess. 4 hospitalization, numerous. CT scans, IR visits, labs including CEA & C4. ALL NORMAL! So on 8/20 we decided to ditch my JP drain and do laparoscopic clean out. .5+ hours a very disappointed angry surgeon came to tell my adult children that I did not have diverticulitis but in fact colon cancer that had adhered to the abdominal wall. He couldn't all of it but now I have a colostomy and started chemo 4 weeks later. 2tx done and only some cold sensitivity. What an interesting way to spend my summer vacation.

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6 comments

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Accepted Answer

What a shocking turn of events after months of treatment for something completely different - that kind of unexpected diagnosis during surgery can feel overwhelming and disorienting. While processing this major change takes time, it sounds like the medical team was able to take important steps during the procedure and get treatment started relatively quickly. Many people in this community have walked similar paths with unexpected diagnoses and the adjustments that come with new treatments, and sharing experiences here can be incredibly valuable as everyone navigates their own journey.

3+ patients found this helpful

MP

Community Member

2 months ago

Why we gotta? Because you excluded us for so.long that we found a group now that works for us and your the victim? Go away

DR

Community Member

2 months ago

Huh?

1

DA

Community Member

2 months ago

Thank you for sharing… I was diagnosed with diverticulitis. Makes me know. Wanna check what’s going on even further.

1

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

What a shocking turn of events after months of treatment for something completely different - that kind of unexpected diagnosis during surgery can feel overwhelming and disorienting. While processing this major change takes time, it sounds like the medical team was able to take important steps during the procedure and get treatment started relatively quickly. Many people in this community have walked similar paths with unexpected diagnoses and the adjustments that come with new treatments, and sharing experiences here can be incredibly valuable as everyone navigates their own journey.

1

KO

Community Member

2 months ago

I’m sorry that happened. Healthcare can be frustrating. I think I’d get a couple more opinions. Read from good medical websites. Ask questions, be your own advocate. Your primary should help you too! Nice you have your children to help you. Praying it gets better for you!! ❤️🙏

IJ

Community Member

10 days ago

I just been diagnosed w/diverticulosis.. my stomach stays swollen.. they keep telling me , oh your just constipated. Keep taking 290mg of linzess everyday. Did colonoscopy. 3 small polyps were found and removed and they said that biopsy says that they pre-cancerous. But they removed them and I am good for 3 yrs.I assured the lady that I am indeed not good at all. That something is not right. And thankfully I am going do an ultrasound of the abdomen on this Tues. Coming.. Whats sad is that I had to practically beg for her to please order an ultrasound... I know my body ... And yes, you have to advocate for yourself. Good luck with everything... Believe in yourself.. and know you are not alone...

How do I cope after unexpected colon cancer diagnosis during surgery?

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