Posts by Kimberly Cox58

Good day to you all. Could someone please share their experience to help me navigate a few concerns? My husband is currently fighting colon cancer. He just wrapped up his sixth and final round of chemotherapy. Initially, our doctors told us that once those six cycles were complete, we would have answers within a month—they planned to run ultrasounds, CT scans, and check his tumor markers. However, the story has suddenly changed. Now they are saying we have to wait another three or four months before even running the tests. Is it truly necessary to wait that long to see if the chemo actually worked, or can we find out sooner? While we are praying for the best, we can't help but wonder if waiting this long makes sense if things haven't gone as planned...
I am seeking your advice and thank you so much for any help.

I would like to ask for one more clarification. My husband’s diagnosis is Adenocarcinoma coli G2 Dukes B. During a conversation with an acquaintance (who has ties to the medical field), I was told that the issue lies within that "G2" designation. What does that actually signify? I have searched everywhere for explanations regarding the Duke scale, but nothing for this specific part. Can anyone help?

Thank you in advance.

Gordana, my dear.

Hello,
My husband is about to start chemotherapy following surgery for colon cancer. His doctor prescribed: Leucovorin 40mg and 5 Fu 900mg, along with Reglan for premedication over a 5-day period. Has anyone here dealt with these specific medications? What kind of side effects should we be bracing for? Thank you for your help.

Good evening. I am hoping someone can offer some guidance. I find myself quite confused by my husband's recent test results. He underwent surgery for colon cancer exactly one month ago. He has recovered wonderfully from the procedure, but his pathology report indicates a Duke scale B tumor. He is now preparing to begin chemotherapy. Before starting, he had blood work done, and I am struggling to understand his GGT level of 60. During our initial consultation, the doctor mentioned this value suggests something might be happening with the liver. At the time, I was in such a state of shock that I failed to ask for clarification. Now, I am deeply concerned—especially since his liver ultrasound showed absolutely nothing. Does anyone have insight? Thank you.

Angela Wright said:After surgery, we wait for the pathology report on the removed tissue. This will confirm if it is an occult carcinoma and determine the exact stage. That report usually takes about 7 to 10 days, and it dictates the entire course of oncology treatment. While the surgeon might have a preliminary idea immediately after the procedure, one should always take those initial thoughts with a grain of salt.
What is done is done. This shock is arguably the hardest part; once treatment begins, you will likely feel more mentally prepared. One must accept the reality and move forward day by day, tackling things as they arrive. Right now, the surgery is the priority—focus entirely on that and the subsequent recovery. Any excessive worrying beyond that point is futile and counterproductive. There are also several vital principles both of you must follow:
0. A husband with a diagnosis does not become an alien or a stranger. He is the same man, just with a diagnosis—which, regardless of how terrifying it sounds, is just one among many conditions people face daily.
1. The diagnosis primarily affects your husband; he is the one suffering most. You are impacted as well, but never let your emotions overshadow his experience. Avoid making your reaction larger than the situation itself. It is a slippery slope, and doing so often places an unfair psychological burden on the patient.
2. Let him make his own decisions, even when you disagree. This is crucial. It preserves his sense of agency and control over his life, which is often stripped away. Feel free to offer suggestions and express your views, but never pressure or force him. Use this trial as an opportunity to deepen your bond. Be his pillar of strength; he needs someone steady and focused.
3. Never allow the illness to dictate your entire existence. You must control the disease, not the other way around. Maintain your routines, social life, hobbies, and work as much as your health and treatment schedule permit. Keep life normal.

These are, without question, the most essential pieces of advice I can offer for navigating successful treatment.

Thank you so much for the advice; it means everything during these difficult times. I am also wondering: how concerning is an increase in the CEA tumor marker from 6.9 to 7.9 in less than 15 days?

People, please help. I am in complete shock. We found out yesterday that my husband has colon cancer. He’s only 43. His surgery is already scheduled for this coming Monday. I have no idea what comes next. Do they know the results immediately after the operation, or is there a long wait? I feel like I'm losing my mind, yet I'm trying so hard to stay strong for him—though, honestly, I'm struggling. Is it enough that he hasn't lost hope?