Hey everyone. New here. Got the call today, Stage 3C rectal cancer. Feels like the floor dropped out from under me. Plan is apparently neoadjuvant chemo/radiation, then surgery, then more chemo. Starts in 3 weeks. Honestly just numb and terrified. Don’t even know what questions to ask yet. How did you cope initially?
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Hey John. Sorry you’re joining the club, but you found a good place. I was Stage 3B colon, diagnosed over 2 years ago. The initial shock is brutal, like being hit by a train. Take it one breath, one hour, one day at a time. It’s okay to be scared and numb. We’ve all been there. My path was surgery first then chemo, sounds like yours is chemo/rad first (common for rectal). Happy to answer Qs when you have them.
Thanks Michael. “One breath at a time” feels about right. Hard to imagine getting through this. Hearing you’re 2 years out gives a tiny bit of hope. Did the shock wear off, or just… change?
It changes. The raw shock fades into waves of anxiety, determination, fear, hope… it’s a rollercoaster. But you learn to ride it. Focus on the very next step: prepping for that first treatment. You’ll get through it.
John, I’m so sorry you’re starting this journey. I had Stage 3 rectal initially too (chemo/rads first, then surgery). That diagnosis day is seared into memory. Allow yourself to feel whatever you feel. Numb is normal. Scared is normal. There’s no right way to react. Be kind to yourself.
Thanks Elizabeth. Hearing you had a similar starting plan helps normalize it a tiny bit. “Be kind to yourself” - easier said than done right now, but I appreciate it.
Stage 3C here too, finished treatment last year. It’s a tough diagnosis, but definitely treatable. The plan sounds standard for rectal cancer (TNT - Total Neoadjuvant Therapy). It’s a marathon. Focus on getting through this first leg. We’re here.
Sorry you’re facing this, John. That 3C news hits hard. The treatment plan is tough but doable. One step at a time.
Sending you strength, John. The waiting period before treatment starts can be incredibly difficult – so much uncertainty. Lean on any support system you have. And use this group – ask anything, vent anytime.
Welcome, John, though sorry you’re here. Focus on that first step: getting ready for chemo/radiation. Ask your team about managing side effects before they start. Get a notebook for questions/notes. You’ll have lots.
The initial phase is a blur of fear and information overload. Bring someone with you to appointments if possible - two sets of ears are better than one, especially when you’re in shock.
Thinking of you, John. It’s a massive shock to the system. Take time to process. This community is a great resource.
