Blog 143 Tuesday 25th December 2012

Taken from last years blog, sorry, Ive been a bit lazy with the blog lately. I am however, optimistic that 2013 will be a great year. Happy New Year to all ..........................

Please pass on the message to all your network of family and friends as a new years resolution to checkout the Bowel Cancer UK website

http://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/understanding-bowel-cancer/

A good article in the "Mail on Sunday" review newspaper this week, entitled "The Chemo-Proof Christmas Dinner" by Jim Fisher. Jim is a former MasterChef semi finalist and highlights the problems of eating for cancer patients........... for thousands of of us cancer patients, suffering the effects of chemotherapy, the thoughts of the Christmas Dinner, Christmas pud, mince pies and other "Goodies" can be quite daunting, Lifesaving chemotherapy can trigger debilitating severe side effects such as nausea, reflux, and mouth ulcers, also oral mucosities which causes an inflammation of the inside of the mouth making eating very painful. Chemotherapy drugs also wreck taste buds, all this occurs due to the strain placed on the immune system during Chemotherapy. Jim Fisher's late mother, Sylvia, suffered a rare form of cancer and Jim realised, as a chef, he could do something about some of the side effects suffered by his mother.

In my case, I had regularly suffered  the pain associated with reflux, and often feel quite nausea's, I had  mouth ulcers and found it difficult sometimes to swallow cold drinks, due to a feeling that my throat was inflamed. Food often tastes metallic to me and I had lost my appetite for the hot curry's I used to soooooo enjoy. Thoughts of weight loss were replaced with my weight steadily increasing to the heaviest I have ever been, I believe due to the steroids that I am prescribed.

Jim Fisher now runs a cooking school in France, and has researched foods for their comforting and healing properties. Jim says " Food is more than about having something to eat. It takes you through the bad times. Going through chemo is rotten enough as it is, but it's often especially bad at Christmas.

Jim Fisher has created a festive menu for those especially having chemotherapy " I hope these recipes make it a merrier Christmas for those battling cancer" says Jim.................. www.mailonline.co.uk/chemorecipes

Blog 142 Friday 7th December 2012

 A letter recently arrived from our daughters school. At first I thought it a "normal" school communication. The letter informed us that  the school council has planned a cake sale for today Friday 7th December. Our  daughter `Hope' 10yrs, enjoys making cakes to sell at school for these events, so I read on, the cakes would be sold for 20p each. The money raised would be divided between two charities Macmillan Nurses and Wish Upon a Star  

Why these two charities ? .........both  were involved with Ronaldas Janovic 9 years, who died of cancer in October. Ronaldas was a pupil in our daughters school. Hope made her cakes last night taking a lot of pride in what she was doing and carefully carried them to school this morning................

Macmillan Nurses, for many people affected by cancer, are a valued and trusted source of expert information, advice and support - free of charge. As of December 2011, there were 3,707 Macmillan nurse posts across the UK, both in hospitals and in the community.

Wish Upon a Star aim is to simply make magical memories for a Wish child and their family to remember for a lifetime. By granting a Wish, this enables the family to have a truly amazing time forgetting about hospital routines, doctor's appointments and the gruelling treatments that have become a daily occurrence and allowing the whole family to smile, laugh and enjoy life!

 

Unfortunately you will not get to try one of these scrumptious cakes (nor did I) but you can donate to the charities by clicking on the links above

 

 

Blog 141 Friday 23rd November 2012

I would like to rewind back to Blog 111 Wednesday 30th May 2012 I mentioned a very brave lady Melanie Swan-Horton I quoted  :

" A mother of two from Norfolk, took on a high protein diet and had a dramatic weight loss, size 16 to dress size 10 enduring hours in the gym and unfortunately putting her side effects down to her diet regime and gym. Mel has been diagnosed with Bowel Cancer the actual reason for her weight loss. Mel has had chemotherapy and bowel cancer operation but nothing more can be done the cancer has spread to liver and lungs...........................this very brave lady is terminal." 

I had the all time highest amount of "hits" on this blog as a result. I now need to bring the sad news......................Mel has lost her battle against cancer, her funeral is at 10.15 on November 26th 2012 at St Faiths in Norwich. Mel arranged the funeral in advance and requested family flowers only and asked for donations to www.big-c.co.uk

It appears that what kept Mel going in her last months, was her  `Bucket List' things that she wanted to do......... Mel did not complete her bucket list....... Mel's aim was to raise awareness. This should be an inspiration to us all there are many lives to be saved out there .................. Please bring Bowel Cancer awareness to everyone's attention in your network. ...................

Bowel Cancer Awareness

1. Around 34,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in England every year and around 13,200 people die from the disease
2. Over 93% of bowel cancer patients diagnosed with the earliest stage of disease survive five years compared with less than 7% of those diagnosed with the advanced disease
3. An estimated 1,700 deaths from bowel cancer could be avoided each year if survival rates matched the best in Europe
4. Further info http://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/25th-anniversary/

 

Blog 140 Tuesday 13th November 2012

Superstitious? no not me. I was born on the 13th. I have flown longhaul to South Africa on Friday 13th and returned a month later on Friday the 13th. Unfortunately it was the 13th May last year that revealed the cancer had spread to my lungs, otherwise i love the 13th!!!
  
Wendy often says "I wish I could take away your pain " or "I wish I could share this burden and fight this battle with you"..............a previous story from the Sydney Telegraph takes me to a similar plight from Vashti Whitfield "I couldnt fight the battle for him" this concerns Andy Whitfield.

In 2009, Andy landed the lead role in the TV series Spartacus: Blood and Sand.  Andy was diagnosed with stage four non-Hodgkin lymphoma and lost the battle in 2011. I watched every episode of this series, which was  full of action and Andy was a brilliant actor. Vashti, lives in Sydney and has a very interesting blog http://www.maybemcqueen.com/category/blog/  We miss Australia and had it not been for the bowel cancer would still be there I'm sure. Today, marks the first total solar eclipse in Northern Queensland the last until 2028..........A time of change

 

Blog 139 Sunday 11 November 2012

Wendy's Blog

I made the Christmas Cake today, and while doing so I could not help comparing the making of it to life. As I weighed, chopped, boiled and stirred the ingredients, I compared it to different events in our lives. We have had a lot of horrible things happen over the last few years, but mixed in with the horrible has been the good times as well.

It is the same as the ingredients for the cake, a glace cherry on it's own is very sweet, raw egg can make you sick, brandy burns your throat, and flour is so dry. But mix them together and you get a cake. Now the end product can turn out very differently as well, you can burn it, the cake can flop, or it can be perfect. It is up to us to take those ingredients that life throws at us and turn it into something to be proud of, a life worth living.

John's cancer is an ingredient, a part of our lives and no matter which way it shapes us we will draw strength from it and survive!

Blog 138 Sunday 4th November 2012

Just a very quick blog I have not been offered any further Chemotherapy by my oncologist, it didn't work the first time so why should it work again?

I was upset at first, then relieved that I wouldn't be going through the winter months enduring the Oxaliplatin and its side effects. I am however on a strict surveillance regime of a CT scan every 3 months.As my oncologist explained the "Harder" drugs for cancer are for established cancers and mine although returning on two occasions is not established.......................touch wood.............or pray......................  

Blog 137 Saturday 3rd November 2012

I am getting ready for my Oncologist appointment today at 11.15am in Northampton. I would like to thank the person that left a message on the blog which concerns the experimentation of screening for Bowel Cancer by blood tests.   Quote...............................................,

'Test for Bowl Cancer' Daily telegraph Sat. Nov 3rd 2012. Australia.

Australian scientists believe they are on the brink of delivering an affordable blood test to identify bowl cancer. At the moment, screening relies on people returning stool sample kits they receive in the mail. But less than 40 per cent of eligible Australians participate in the free federal government program.

The new blood test has been developed by biotech company Clinical Genomics in collaboration with the CSIRO and Flinders University in Adelaide.
It could be commercially available by late 2013. The blood test is currently being trialled on 3000 patients, with results detecting 73 per cent of cancers'.....................unquote

 

The current method is bowel cancer screening  In the UK only 50% of the test kits are returned !!! Come on you guys if you get a kit use it and send it back..................It could just save your life and prevent your family going through Hell if you are later diagnosed. 

Wendy's Blog

Talking about putting family through Hell, the only "Hell" that I have gone through is watching the man you love going through pain, uncertainty and psychological trauma and there is nothing I can do but support, hold and comfort. The other hell is trying to support a 10 year old who has seen and had things explained to her that no 10 year old should see and hear. We had her in counselling for a few months to try and cope with everything she has had thrown at her this year and it is comforting to know that she has "good coping" skills.

However I am lucky in that I manage a district and therefore I am classed as a home worker. I manage my diary 90% of the time and so I can schedule in John's appointments, and be with him when I can hear and see that he is not coping. My work has been incredibly supportive and has supported me when I need it. I say lucky because if I was office based it would be so much more difficult to offer this support and maybe we wouldn't have coped as well as we have. On the flip side there are times when the stress of  doing my job and dealing with setbacks with the cancer does get to the stage where you just want to walk away and hide. However that is not an option and I cope because John is my husband and the love of my life and I will be there for him as his crutch as he is there for me. Family is the key to overcoming adversity in your life.

Blog 136 Wednesday 31st October 2012

Happy Halloween!! We have just got back from a few days R&R in the Cairngorms National Park Scotland. I was not able to do much walking but the scenery was breathtaking, especially as most of the Cairngorms are snow capped. We had a lovely stay at the Dunallen Guest House in
Grantown-on-Spey. Thanks once again to our hosts David and Jayne.

After three lots of anti biotics my incisions are eventually healing nicely. On our return from Scotland a message had been left on the answer machine from my Oncologist Craig MacMillan. I have an appointment on Saturday 3rd November 2012. I am hoping that I am offered Chemotherapy for a second time. I previously blogged that Craig MacMillan, said that he would not necessarily offer me Chemo again, as it had not worked and I had suffered severe side effects. My Thoracic surgeon Mr Waller, reported that the tumours removed from my lung on this occasion, had been effected by the chemo but had continued to grow. With the return of the bowel cancer to my lung, I want the chemo even with the side effects. I am sure that Craig MacMillan is very concerned after the chemo drug Oxaliplatin  that gave me the Tinnitus that has effected me so badly.

November is just around the corner. I will be so glad when this year is over. Its been a horrible year starting in January with the passing of my former wife, Janice, who was battling cancer, and which has devastated my sons, to the passing of my father in March. Chemotherapy with its side effects and further ops on my lungs after the cancer has returned. Bring on 2013 I am optimistic it will be better much better !!!!     

Blog 135 Tuesday 23rd October 2012

The consultation with Mr Waller the surgeon went better than first thought. Firstly a quick chest scan, which was clear, great now to the big man himself. Apparently I was on the wrong anti-biotics and told to discontinue these and take a new batch for the next 5 days ........that's it, .......all that worry for nothing....... I'm sure other cancer patients would agree, that when a strange phone call comes in from the hospital on a Sunday afternoon, or any day of the week come to that (Its happened to me twice and its always been bad news)   you do tend to worry........................ OK.................

Colonoscopy..................................check
Bowel surgery................................check
CT and MRI scans......................... check
Surgery on both lungs.....................check
Chemotherapy ................................check
CT & PET Scan...............................check
Surgery on left lung.........................check

Please talk to, your family or friends if you or they do not want a check list like my list above check out the Bowel Cancer UK website for signs and symptoms or more information.

http://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/

It is staggering that a quarter of bowel cancer sufferers are only diagnosed after being admitted to hospital as an emergency. Please read more by clicking on the link http://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/media-centre/latest-news/quarter-of-bowel-cancer-patients-only-diagnosed-after-an-emergency-admission/

England Scotland and Wales have a bowel cancer screening programme in place
"Compared with breast and cervical screening, bowel screening uptake is worryingly low, particularly among men. This study is an important reminder for people to complete their bowel screening kit when it arrives in the post."
Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK with more than 41,000 people diagnosed with the disease each year - over 100 people each day.
The bowel screening programme has only been fully up and running in England since 2010 but it is thought it will eventually save around 2,000 lives each year in

I am aware that this blog has been viewed in Fifty Four countries so far (Click Here to See) or on the Cluster Map) I would love to hear from others, especially if you have a screening programme in your country or have used the screening programme in your country.   

Blog 134 Monday 22nd October 2012

We have had a fantastic weekend celebrating my eldest son Jonathan and his wife Victoria's blessing of their marriage. Jonathan & Victoria were married on Christmas Eve 2011, they had brought their wedding plans forward, as Jonathan's mum Janice, my former wife of fourteen years, was battling cancer a battle she lost in January 2012. The wedding was originally planned for 20th October 2012 and that's what we did............it was a beautiful occasion.

On our return Sunday afternoon, I received  a strange phone call from the hospital.......Sunday afternoon.........?? results of the fluid removed from the recent absys that were sent for analysis have been returned and my surgeon, Mr Waller needs to speak to me ..................I confirmed I have an appointment tomorrow 23rd October, "Don't shoot the messenger" comes to mind. The very polite person was not able to give me any further information................we wait and try not to come up with any reasons and explanations prior to the consultation.............
 

Blog 133 Thursday 18th October 2012

What a week!! I had to go back to the hospital as an absis had formed under one of the incisions and was causing a lot of pain. The ward doctor had to open up the incision, firstly with a large needle and syringe, then with a swab. All the fluid was removed and a sample sent for analysis. because the infection is so bad I have been put on Flucloxacillin x 2 x 500mg x 4 times a day and Phenoxymethyl x 250mg x 4 times day as well as Tylex pain killers. I have been back to the local GP everyday this week for the wounds to be dressed. I haven't been able to sleep very well as my chest and back is still very painful. On my return to hospital I was sent straight back to the High Dependency Unit HDU as that was the only room available for the doctor. To my horror, I recognised the person in the only other bed "Colin". Colin was in the HDU with me after our operations two weeks ago. Colin had the same Op as me and was informed that there was a probability of 90% that the biopsy's taken from his lung were not cancerous. Colin was back in having surgery, on the very day I had returned and having his lung lower lobe removed............ the histology had returned cancerous cells ..............................I felt so sorry for Colin,  as on the ward we had discussed his operation and I felt good for him that all would probably be OK. Keep your chin up Colin Its all been found in good time which is great.!!

I must again make mention of my Medical Insurance "Simply Health" they have been wonderful a special thanks to "Julia" my contact at Simply Health. I have mentioned before how comforting it is to know that medically, everything will be taken care of when your world starts falling apart around you......................It is so nice to have a friendly voice and efficient person arranging everything.         

Blog 132 Sunday 14th October 2012

Today was my fathers birthday, he died earlier this year aged 93 years. My wife  Wendy had an opportunity to participate in the Perkins 5k Fun Run she did so in my fathers honour, and to raise money for the "The blind Veterans UK" . My father was an Eighth Army "Desert Rat"  in the second world war and a commander of a tank regiment. In later years he lost his sight and St Dunstans in Sussex helped him tremendously. St Dunstans is now known as The Blind Veterans UK . Wendy completed the fun run in brilliant sunshine this morning in Peterborough. There were hundreds of people running for different charities, you may donate to this fantastic cause HERE  

Under normal circumstances Wendy would have run for Bowel Cancer UK due to my condition, but it was poignant that this run was arranged on my fathers birthday

I was not able to run, as I only had my stitches out on Friday last week and I am still in a lot of pain. I am due to see the nurse again on Monday 15th October to assess the wounds and then an appointment with my Surgeon Mr Waller has been set for 23rd October. I will then enter the early warning treadmill of the scans.........................I will now be passed back to my Oncologist Mr Craig MacMillan. As I have more treatments and surgery, it appears to take longer to get over it .................or is it because I'm getting older??mmm

Blog 131 Sunday 7th October 2012

I am now back home, having been discharged from hospital with a big pack of pain relief. My first thoughts of this last week is that the pain was not so intense second time around due to the epidural

 

Although my epidural was placed much higher than shown in this image, the principle was the same.
The Epidural was in place to administer a prescribed dose of a drug called FENTANYL this drug is described as 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. I was given morphine during my Bowel cancer operation and had hallucination's what was to happen now!!!!!! The following is taken from an information site

Thoracic Epidural Block height and intensity
"Typically, the effects of the epidural are noted below a specific level on the body (dermatome). This level (the "block height") is chosen by the anaesthetist. The level is usually 3-4 dermatomes higher than the point of insertion. A very high insertion level may result in sparing of very low dermatomes. For example, a thoracic epidural may be performed for upper abdominal surgery, but may not have any effect on the perineum (area around the genitals) or bladder.^[9] Nonetheless, giving very large volumes into the epidural space may spread the block both higher and lower.
The intensity of the block is determined by the concentration of local anaesthetic drugs used. For example, 15 ml 0.1% bupivacaine may provide good analgesia for a woman in labour, but would likely be insufficient for surgery. Conversely, 15 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine would provide a more intense block, likely sufficient for surgery. Since the volume used in each case is the same, the spread of drug, and hence the block height, is likely to be similar"................................so there you have it !


Knowing my fear of having a needle into my spinal column from our previous meeting, my anaesthetist, first put me under before inserting the epidural. My Surgeon Mr Waller said he would try to use the previous scars but would have to open them up further:-

CHEST DRAIN

THE LOWER SCAR IS THE WIDTH OF THE SURGEONS HAND AS HE HAD TO GET HIS HAND INSIDE MY DEFLATED LUNG






A SPIRAL OF EPIDURAL TUBE EXITING MY SPINAL COLUMN SECURED IN PLACE BY SURGICAL CLINGWRAP!!









The worst experience during this whole procedure was waking up after the Op, I was gasping for air and trying to say I couldn't breath !! The recovery staff had just removed all the tubes from my throat and having had my lung deflated for surgery, I needed to re-inflate it naturally. How was I to know!!!! I was asleep!! I was panicking, disorientated, and woozy. A very calm voice repeated several times "Just concentrate on breathing" I stopped panicking and started breathing.................  

The secondary tumour has now been removed from my lung and had been effected by the previous Chemotherapy. Some cells had died from the effects of the chemo, but the actual tumour had continued to grow. This is good news, as my Oncologist had previously stated that I would not necessarily be offered further Chemotherapy, "as it had not worked" now we know it had worked, in part, maybe I will get another opportunity.

This episode was a major disappointment to me, especially after the chemo. I am secretly hoping this tumour was a "stray" cell from my previous lung op a year ago and this is now the end.

I have had many well wishers and prayers offered from family and friends thank you all ,but I was especially very proud to have my 83 year old Mother "Phyllis" and wife Wendy by my side in hospital throughout the week helping me through. Jonathan and Hope were also fantastic in their support thank you all very much.

Again I have to thank all the staff at the Leicester Spire for a job well done especially Mr Waller Thoracic surgeon, Dr West Anesthetist, theatre staff and ward staff they were all brilliant........ 

Blog 130 Tuesday 2nd October 2012

Wendy's Blog

Last night John slept like a baby, I was the one sitting reading the paper at 2.00am in the morning in the lounge.... I don't know but today was not something I was looking forward too. We arrived at the hospital at 7.15am and was lead straight to the High Dependency Unit. The nurse arrived at about 7.45am and John was asked all sorts of questions and was given his nice hospital gown and pressure socks....very fetching.

We waited, and waited, the operation was originally due for 8.30 but after the anesthetist Dr West and Mr Waller, the surgeon saw John we realised that he was being put back till 11.00am. John climbed into bed and managed to sleep for awhile. I must say it wasn't long before the men in green surgical scrubs came to get him. After a hug and kiss I watched my husband being wheeled away. It is not nice knowingly letting him go so that someone can hurt him. We both know that there was no option, this operation needed to be done, but the pain to come that is what is scary!

It was a long and lonely wait. Jonathan (John's eldest son) had gone to our home to pick up John's mum who is staying with us this week, and to help get Hope off to school, but with the delay of the operation they decided to come to the hospital for about noon. It was then decided that they would then wait for Hope as John was not due back till about 2.30pm - 3.00pm. I had taken a book and sat in the lounge waiting! As for updates none is forthcoming until he is wheeled back from recovery... a really long wait!

He was brought back to me at 2.30pm, tubes coming out of his back (epidural), side (lung drain), nose (oxygen), catheter, and IV's in his hand and arm. He was still incredibly drowsy and in pain. The epidural is something John was offered last time but turned down. He regretted that decision and that is why he had it this time. I must say the pain was controlled very quickly and he was made comfortable a lot quicker than last year.

By the time his Mum, Jonathan and Hope arrived at the hospital, he was sitting up, drinking water and asking for something to eat and some tea. However he soon waned and needed to sleep. Sleep tight John, love you and glad that they got the tumour.

I have taken some photo's and we will get them up as soon as he is back home

 

Blog 129 Monday 1st October 2012

The day before surgery........ not sure how I am feeling, I remember the last time I went in to the same hospital for the same operation at the same time only 13 months ago. I have been given the same surgical scrub for pre operative washing and the same thoughts running through my head, only last time I had the chemotherapy, post Op, to fall back on.  I am an avid reader of anything that will assist others in the future concerning Bowel Cancer It was with interest that I read
 http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2201277/The-3D-scan-helping-surgeons-treat-inoperable-tumours.html A story about a very brave lady Heather Davies diagnosed with Bowel Cancer in such an awkward position she was told it was inoperable. Based along the same lines of my recent PET Scan (but without radio-activity). A CT scan and  an MRI Scan is put together and computer software transforms it into 3D images, giving the surgeon a far better platform to operate,  brilliant!!. When you read things like this you again realise there are persons far worse off than yourself..................Bag packed, starvation procedure in place, not long to go now and this alien will be removed.

HOPE'S BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

I'm Really upset that my daddy is going into hospital again its been a while since I wrote on the blog. I'm typing really fast because I gotta go to bed soon. When daddy was given the ALL CLEAR for a little bit I thought it was forever but mummy said he still had to have checks and scans. Anyway I'm looking forward for tomorrow because we get KFC by the way that's a take away.

 

 

BYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

 

Blog 128 Tuesday 25th September 2012

I have had a letter confirming my lung operation at the Leicester Spire Hospital for next week. I also have to attend at the hospital this Thursday for a Pre-Op assessment. Secondary Bowel cancer has once again taken hold in my left lung.  My Surgeon, Mr Waller will be performing a Broncoscopy as well as opening up the original scars to remove the tumour .....happy days. Hey! this time next week it will all be over and hopefully drawing on the morphine!!!!

Reading all the hospital literature that has come through the post, I get DeJa Vu  yes !! I've definitely  been here before Monday 18th July 2011  I can distincly remember,  I went through the mind debate of whether to have an Epidural or not. I didn't, my anaethetist listened and come up with some other blocker. I may have to this time as it is my surgeon's preffered method of analgesia  

 

Blog 127 Thursday 20th September 2012

At 19.30 this evening the phone rang and a very welcome voice followed.... Mr Waller my Thoracic surgeon  Mr Waller apologised for phoning so late.............I wouldn't of cared if it was midnight!!!! He explained his view of the scans, and position of the tumour. Mr Waller explained, he would have to open me up again in the same area as before, (Blog 17 Friday 22nd July) but he would have to make the incisions larger in order to get to the area concerned. Well at least I now have a date and have something to aim at !! If it's anything like last time, Wendy will clear her diary, and work from her laptop in the hospital. The mum's at Hopes school will rally around and offer to look after Hope, Pick up and drop off etc. Appointments to be cancelled. Nobody likes going in for an operation but I'm sure that other cancer sufferers will agree, I just want this thing out of my body and 2nd October when my operation is scheduled, cannot come soon enough !! 

Blog 126 Wednesday 19th September 2012

Hey, suddenly got lots of visits from Brazil on the blog was it something I said ? "Ola Brazil"

Back on blog 117 16th July 2012 I blogged that I had received an NHS Letter "Out of the Blue" from Kettering Radiography department for a CT Scan on 25th July 2012 . This Scan was out of sync for my cancer surveillance. I queried the letter with my bowel cancer specialist nurse Mark Kingston of Kettering hospital  and was told it is a mistake. It should read 25th July2013, I should not turn up and to rip the letter up.

I wrote on blog 117 "Everything happens for a reason"   I did not go for the scan,  as It would have deprived someone else of an appointment,  I had a scan arranged by my oncologist privately......the scan that found the latest tumour. I have read this letter several times since,  the scan was for an abdominal scan only and would not have identified the tumour in my lung !! I have since queried the surveillance regime I am on .................apparently the NHS surveillance regime is correct.

Sorry to sound morose, but I'm certain that Kettering Radiography dept would not have seen me on the 25th July 2013 it would have been too late in my case.................the NHS has done wonderful things for me and my family in the past, but if you believe you have been wrongly diagnosed, as I was, or you believe you have been incorrectly categorised for your treatment, do not hesitate to question... question... question. I believe from my first incorrect diagnosis to this recent episode I may have extended my life expectancy by at least 10 years.

 

Blog 125 Tuesday 18th September 2012

Yesterday, I waited all day for the phone to ring for the results of my PET scan ........................and waited, it was a long day.............I phoned the thoracic nurse specialist that had been assigned to me ...............answer phone......I phoned my oncologist...............answer phone.......eventually around 4.30pm I decided to take "Jack" our Labrador out for a walk, I took my mobile just in case.............nobody phoned. Whilst I was out, my oncologist had phoned and left a message to call straight back. In our country we call that sods law  otherwise known as Murphy's law.

Good news the PET Scan only revealed the tumour in my lung and nothing else phew !! now we know what we are dealing with its a referral back to Mr Waller who performed my original chest operation. I have had a few questions about the latest tumour in my lung. Yes, it is still Bowel Cancer that has travelled to the lungs. I will be asking the obvious question on my next consultation, "How much more of my lung can be removed"? unlike the liver the lung does not regenerate. I have already had five tumours removed a year ago. The other day someone said to me "Its lucky its bowel cancer and not lung cancer that lung cancer is terrible"!!!  ........MMMmmmmmmmmmm

Wendy's Blog

It was a great relief to get that phone call from the oncologist yesterday, the whole weekend in the back of our minds hung the thought of what the PET scan would reveal. It is really difficult to stay positive, today on the way to Norfolk (I do a lot of driving in my job) I was saying things like....positive thoughts only, a half full glass and not a half empty glass.....release the anger!!!!

I must admit I did feel calmer, so now I just need to continue floating those thoughts through my mind a bit more often.

Blog 124 Saturday 15th September 2012

John is Radio Active

The Pet scan itself was no different from any other full body scan I have had, but the preparation was mind boggling!!

In a nutshell, I was injected with a low dose of Radio Active Glucose. Fludeoxyglucose (FDG) The theory is, that your internal organs such as brain, liver, kidneys, muscles etc all use glucose to function. Cancer cells also use glucose in high concentration. The PET scanner uses x-ray technology with the radio active glucose (tracer) to create a 3D picture of the inside of my body. The images will highlight any cancerous cells.

I was not allowed to do any form of strenuous exercise for 24 hours   (hooray!!!)   prior to scanning, this is  in order to keep the uptake of glucose in muscle to a minimum. I also had to fast for six hours prior. On arrival at the unit the obvious previous history questions and consent forms then a cannula in my left arm. This is where the similarities change. A Nuclear Medicine Technologist then attached a metal canister, to the cannula,  that systematically released small doses of the FDG whilst he also injected saline. I then had to totally rest for an hour. No talking, No walking. I am now Radio Active and must not come into close contact with pregnant woman or children in the next 6 hours. Although the first is not a problem I do have a ten year old daughter.

After an hour, I was escorted to a specific toilet with the above, " Radio Active" signs on the door and told to empty my bladder. I was then escorted back to the scanner, via a separate door and led into the machine.............................The scan will reveal the tumour already found, in my left lung the hope is that nothing else will be discovered .............once again we wait for the results. My Oncologist will then decide on what course of action, If its just the lung tumour its back to the Leicester Spire hospital and my surgeon Mr Waller.       

Blog 123 Thursday 13th September 2012

I have an emergency PET Scan tomorrow 14th September at GMT 15.50 I have been told to fast for 6 hours prior and arrive one hour before in order to receive a radio active injection, then lay back for an hour before the scan begins which should last about an hour phew!!!!!  My newly acquired tumour in my lung will soon be history!!!!!!!!!!!

A year ago today via blog 33, I wrote..................

"It has been two years, almost to the day, that a colonoscopy revealed my colon cancer in advanced stages. It has been four months to the day that a CT scan revealed polyp's on my lungs had changed in size and increased in number. Since then Ive been pushed, prodded, injected, anaesthetised, sedated, incised, clamped, stapled stitched and sewn. I have eleven incision scars across my torso, soon to be twelve. Ive attended Nine different medical establishments on two different continents for various procedures. I have seen more of my internal organs via video, photos and on surgeons VDU monitors than I have ever seen of my back, (for instance) ................but in all this time I have never felt ill.............. never felt as if I'm sick .........never felt unwell with the cancer, probably because I was lucky and caught it in time...............................".


I can now add to the above list a further two incisions soon to be five more and having been slowly poisoned with the toxic chemotherapy drugs, and to become "radio active" during my next PET Scan, I have been told I must not come into contact with children or pregnant woman for 6 hours after the PET Scan.

I have never felt unwell except with the chemotherapy.  With the latest Tumour now discovered, growing in my left lung. I am frustrated...................................... if I had left it to the NHS again, I would not have had a CT scan until July 2013, and this current tumour would probably have been my death sentence,  It is only because I have had the benefit of private health care that this latest tumour has been discovered so early, a CT scan ordered by the private health care Oncologist a full 10 months prior to the NHS Scan !

Sorry if I sound a bit tetchy today, but originally I had a mis - diagnosis by an NHS Doctor in Worthing of Irritable Bowel Syndrome all those years ago and it later took an Australian doctor to find my bowel cancer.

After this last episode I feel let down by the NHS thank goodness for private health care, even if it only prolongs my life by another  couple of years, it will be two more years with my family. Thank you to the family and friends for all the prayers the Lord is truly looking after me..................  

Blog 122 Monday 10th September 2012

Today, my Oncologist, gave me the devastating result of my recent CT Scan., a tumour has once again, invaded my left lung,  If you have read my blog previously, you may remember that in July 2011, I had an operation on both lungs to remove a total of 5 tumours. The operation was reported a success. A CT Scan was ordered after the conclusion of Chemotherapy in March of this year, and via blog 97, I reported that I had been given the "all clear".

The euphoria of "beating" cancer has been short lived. Now, I find myself being sent for a  PET Scan  (Positron Emission Tomography) possibly this Friday. A PET scan gives a higher resolution imaging and is used in conjunction with the CT for a much more detailed picture. (please click on the link for explanation) My lung surgeon Mr Waller of the Spire Hospital in Leicester, has been contacted by oncologist Craig MacMillan in preparation for surgery. I telephoned the Medical Insurance company "Simply Health" to keep them updated.....my sons, and my mother ...............and it all starts again.

I was foolish thinking that I could beat bowel cancer in such a short time. I was once told that the first five years are the longest. You are not officially a "Survivor" until after five years. I was confident that I had beaten the disease after the Chemotherapy, instead I took it on holiday to France with me..............................I am still fighting it and keeping upbeat and positive. Wendy is, as always very supportive, but I can see it is hurting her, especially after the news that I will not necessarily be offered Chemotherapy for a second time............as it didn't work, I wonder what else we have in the ...................arse-nal  !!!!!!! There is also lots of help for the loved ones of cancer patients MacMillan Cancer support I have been in contact with MacMillan when I was first diagnosed and they are very informative and helpful.


Wendy's Blog

The first time we found out that John had bowel cancer, I treated it the same way I treat life.....let us live it and get on with it. No mental anguish!! The second time it hit me really hard, I think it took me three weeks to once again face it head on, deal with it and get on with life. Today......I don't know? How do I support John, Hope and the boys....how do we cope? I know that this time it will take awhile but we will get over it and get on with life. I love my husband and my "kids" and I will do anything to protect them.........

Blog 121 Thursday 6th September 2012

Sad I know, but one of my favourite daily reads is the Mail On Line. You can check out what you want without being subject to the normal daily newspaper sensationalism.

Anyone who has read my blog before, will know that I sometimes refer to articles taken from the `Mail On Line' and today will be no different. Two articles has hit home with me, `He didn't need to die':  A wife's harrowing story after her husband was diagnosed with IBS and died of Bowel Cancer  and the second article Bowel Cancer soars by 120% among the under Thirties  an older article but goes to show Bowel Cancer is not only an older persons disease, and under thirties can be wrongly diagnosed due to their age.

Both of these articles caught my eye, firstly because I was diagnosed with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and later found I had advanced stage Bowel Cancer.The symptoms are very similar and can easily be mistaken. Giles Cowley 41 the unfortunate person in the first article had a stressful job and lifestyle. Although I was 45 my Job was stressful and may not of been eating properly. My GP then diagnosed IBS without any further tests it was in fact the start of Bowel Cancer.

The second article caught my eye because,  as with the first article and IBS if you do not fit the profile of a person that is in the age group of persons likely to be effected by bowel cancer (Over 50) then your GP may diagnose wrongly. Our government still only screens for Bowel Cancer when you reach 60 in England

Who is eligible for screening?
If you are aged:

• 60-69 in England
• 60-74 in Wales
• 60-71 in Northern Ireland
• 50-74 in Scotland

By taking some simple steps to improve your diet and taking regular exercise can help reduce your risk of bowel cancer. So it is important to:

Diet & Exercise

• consider what you are eating
• eat plenty of fibre
• eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day
• avoid processed meats and have no more than 500g of red meat per week
• keep active with regular exercise
• keep hydrated and avoid drinks containing caffeine
• know your alcohol limits and don't smoke
• know the symptoms of bowel cancer and act on them if you have any concerns
• take part in the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme in your area when you are invited. This involves completing a simple test which can help identify whether further investigation is necessary

Blog 120 Monday 27th August 2012

My experience of the bowel cancer and the treatment given to me, never seem to leave my thoughts, it's always there, somehow in the background, always in my mind.   The follow up treatment is also never very far away. I have received another appointment for a further CT Scan at Northampton general hospital for Monday 3rd September 2012. This scan has been ordered by my oncologist for the Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis. This scan is no different from the others I have had, but is one of a long line of scans and is part of my "early warning system" just in case !! I am thankful for this system as it gives me peace of mind......................for a while.................................... but is nerve racking waiting for the results.    

Blog 119 Wednesday 15th August 2012

Just got back from the North West Brittany Coast of France, having stayed in a beach cottage owned by my good (Old) police chum friend Adrian. Adrian is now a resident of France and lives about an hour away where he tends his Gites. The Breton Gites are also available for summer lets. At the Beach Cottage in Erdeven lots of sun, fishing and snorkelling. Pernod and red wine !! brilliant.

Having followed my plight on this blog, Adrian admitted that he had the opportunity of supplying samples for the French version of the bowel cancer screening test but had declined. In France the government send out the test screening kits at age 50 years the same as Scotland . In England our government only send them out at 60 years. My symptoms started at age 45 years and I would have been dead at  age 55 years had I not caught the bowel cancer in time. I have urged Adrian to complete the test as I would do with anyone receiving the test through the post. If, like me  you are not of the age to receive the kits and believe you have any of the bowel cancer symptoms  do not hesitate to contact your GP or there is a load of information on the Bowel Cancer UK website. 

Quite uncanny, when I got back from France an email was waiting for me from another "Old" police chum Iain, with an article attached from the recent NARPO magazine (National Association of Retired Police Officers) It was exactly what I was talking to Adrian about

Bowel Cancer

"DO THE CHECKS"

"Well I served for 33 years finishing up in Cleveland Constabulary and at 60 years of

age my wife and myself started supplying samples to the bowel cancer screening

program which you do every 2 years.This year I did my samples about the

same time I was reading the article "Bowel Cancer" by Geoff Stuttaford and they

found a trace in my samples and within 6 weeks I had seen all the nurses and

specialists and had the required operation and the area was removed.

I am back to my fit and healthy lifestyle and hope that I get the birthday card from the

Queen in the future. For those who sit thinking I am fit & healthy

please note I had no ill effects or condition to indicate anything was wrong, I was

recently talking to a friend who sent for the sample envelope 5 years ago and stated

it's in the drawer somewhere. Join the screening program it's better to

know and sort it and live a long life".

R M Coverdale MBE

ex PC 154D_ _J

Visit our website at www.narpo.org • Email hq@narpo.org • Telephone 01924 362 166

Blog 118 Monday 30th July 2012

Early diagnosis of bowel cancer saves lives........I am ever thankful to my wife Wendy who kept nagging me to go back to the doctors when my symptoms of diarrhoea didn't go away, I was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer at an advanced stage and ever thankful to the doctors surgeons and nurses who gave me the second chance.........................you can get lots of information from                 www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk 

 Information & Support freephone:                      0800 8403540

East Midlands Cancer Network has asked Bowel Cancer UK for help in contacting local colon or rectal cancer survivors. The Cancer Network is a useful resource for local information for cancer patients, their friends and relatives and Health Professionals from the East Midlands area. East Midland Cancer Network understands that many patients following treatment for a colon or rectal cancer face many and varied challenges which may not be met by their local hospital team.

To this end they are planning to make a DVD which will be handed to patients and carers six weeks after their treatment is completed. The Cancer Network would like to interview 5 patients about their experiences.

In addition, they are also looking to film 5 patients to share these experiences. .In my attempts to spread the word Bowel Cancer UK has asked if I would be a willing participant to be interviewed for a DVD and filmed whilst sharing experiences. WELL I recently jumped at the chance of being interviewed "ON AIR" for Northampton Radio and being photographed for the local paper which highlighted this blog.....................so if I can help persons embarking on the rehabilitation period after treatment then bring it on.

 

Blog 117 Monday 16th July 2012

OK, I need to make some sense of my recent ramblings, so a short synopsis . I developed a severe case of Tinnitus  on my fourth chemotherapy session back in 2011.  I was immediately taken off the chemo drug Oxaliplatin as this was believed to be the cause. My Oncologist Craig Macmillan left notes for my GP that if the Tinnitus does not get better two months after my chemo, I should be referred to an Otolaryngology or ENT Specialist for further investigation.
(Synopsis John synopsis !!!!)

Ok, I had an MRI Scan which was clear of any focal abnormality ie metastases or acoustic neuroma so that's good !!!!! but I have been told that the MRI scan picked up that I have generalised cerebral atrophy (shrinking of the brain) with periventricular ischemic change.

Although this is not uncommon in the older person and is associated with dementia, but in my case described as "possibly slightly more than might be expected in a patient of my age". (55 years) Today my GP gave me a copy of the Radiology report and suggested that I again contact my Oncologist. Just in case  I have also informed the medical insurance people................."Simply Health" they have been very good.......and continue to be sympathetic and supportive.

This is just too weird ! I have received an appointment from the NHS to attend a CT Scan on Wednesday 25th July 2012. It specifically mentions abdominal scan. I telephoned my bowel cancer specialist nurse and spoke with Mark Kingston as this scan is out of sync with what I have recently been told at El-Rabaa surgery. Mark made enquiries and reassured me that in fact this letter is a mistake by the radiology department and should in fact be 25th July 2013 I am a great believer in "everything happens for a reason" or am I just pessimistic. Mark told me to tear the letter up and not go......................

Blog 116 Wednesday 11th July 2012

I was given an appointment with my bowel cancer consultant yesterday which is a normal 6 monthly check and I took the opportunity to ask for the results of my recent MRI Scan ordered by the ear nose and throat specialist. Thankfully I was told the scan results came back clear and the consultant said they were unable to determine the cause of the tinnitus. I was very happy. However the CEA count, which is the cancer marker in my blood, was slightly higher than it has been, so I was sent for further blood tests. I'm not worried by this as when undergoing Chemo my CEA marker was often climbing then dropping but always in the "normal" zone. My consultant asked me to make an appointment with my GP so the results of the scan can be discussed further........... which has been set for next week Monday. The reason why the consultant asked me to make this appointment with the GP is, that apparently she was not qualified to discuss MRI (????????) so be it,  a trip to the GP it is then...............      

Blog 115 Friday 30th June 2012

My MRI scan was quite eventful, whilst waiting and dressed only in the open backed, blue hospital, gown, an unfortunate sedated soul was wheeled through from the hospital A&E on a hospital bed,  and immediately wheeled into the MRI suite, an entourage of doctors followed, this unfortunate soul took my place which I gladly gave up, there is always others worst off than yourself..................

I was therefore quite late going in for my MRI scan compared to my original appointment time.  I always get quite claustraphobic whilst being drawn into the machine and always try and think of other things .........this time a song by Pink Floyd, popped into my head, "Welcome to the Machine" 

The MRI was a lot louder than I remembered,  headphones on and with my panic button in hand it was soon over. My MRI took approximately 30 minutes, and the wait for the results begins...  

Blog 114 Monday 25th June 2012

I have my MRI Scan appointment today at 13.30 GMT. This MRI scan is for my Head and has been ordered by my GP due to my suffering from Tinnitus since the Chemotherapy drug, " Oxaliplatin" was administered back in September last year. I was eventually taken off the drug in December 2011 due to this condition . My hearing has been tested as "Normal" and the MRI is a further test to see if there is anything present that may be causing this condition.

 The NHS has come through with a priority appointment as expected. Suddenly all the fears of "What if" come flooding back. My previous MRI scan revealed my bowel cancer had travelled to my lungs, so forgive me for being a bit pessimistic on my appointment today. I joined a very good web site some while ago, where you can discuss any form of fear or pessimism as a sufferer or carer  http://www.journeythroughcancer.com/ please check it out its full of good advice or somewhere to connect with others going through the same or similar journeys. An extract from this weeks message. on the journey through cancer web site

"We must build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear"
                                Martin Luther King Jr,
Rick, the author of this site and a Colorectal Cancer Surgeon, tells of a case this week "of a woman diagnosed with cancer 3 years ago but never came to see the oncologist due to fear. Truth of the matter is, she was curable then, but now is not. Trouble is, this isn’t the first time I’ve seen this and probably won’t be the last.  I’ve heard that just hearing the “c” word can create such paralytic fear."
                       
“I have a highly developed sense of denial”

                                      Gwinneth Paltrow

 At a recent survivorship celebration a gentleman shared that after 6 year of survivorship, a counseling session brought out the revelation that his radiation treatment markings (tattoos) were an all too constant reminder of his cancer and its treatment. Conventional wisdom would tell us that this is a classic coping mechanism, denial, getting in the way of somebody actually addressing the issue. Others may offer that you’ll deal with your issue when you are ready to deal with it, so denial gives you the space and time needed until you are ready to cope.

 Have you noticed a time, even many years after the event when denial actually protected you until you were ready to deal with a painful memory?  

My message is always the same, Bowel Cancer is curable if caught early enough. Bowel Cancer claims thousands of lives needlessly every year. Visit the Bowel Cancer UK website  for some great information.

Blog 113 Wednesday 13th June 2012

I had an appointment at The Corby Diagnostic Centre yesterday. I was seeing the Ear Nose and Throat consultant  regarding the Tinnitus I have previously blogged. I became involved with Tinnitus after the fourth chemotherapy session when Tinnitus suddenly effected me,  I reported this to my Oncologist and he took me  off the Chemo drug Oxaliplatin straight away. It is apparently a very rare side effect of the drug (I've had a few very rare side effects during chemo) I had to go through all the audio tests first before seeing the consultant. After the tests my hearing was reported as "Normal" so why do I continuously tell Wendy to "Turn the TV up"?....................pardon

Having had a thorough examination of my ears, the next stage is to see if anything is causing the problem internally. I was previously warned by the GP that referred me, that I would have an MRI Scan on my head, given the problems I have had with bowel cancer.

The ENT Consultant concluded that I need an MRI scan and this should be through in the next few weeks. Apparently I was treated as a priority case by the consultant that reviewed my referral letter, so hopefully this will continue and I will not have to wait too long for the MRI scan.   

Blog 112 Monday 4th June 2012

 Bowel Cancer UK volunteer week 1 - 7 June It was a very nice surprise this week, to get a "Thank you" card, and volunteer certificate, not to mention a decadent bar of chocolate, through the post.

It reminded me of the reason that I originally became a volunteer for Bowel Cancer UK. I wanted to tell everyone of my journey through Bowel Cancer then realised that having reached over 40 countries through my blog, my exposure via the Corby Evening Telegraph and Northampton Radio that I could possibly make a difference.

Now I am hoping that I may be able to raise awareness and make people think about the symptoms they may be experiencing in order to prevent to them, what happened to me. I am very lucky, that after all those years, a misdiagnosis, on-going  symptoms  and two major operations that I have been given the all clear. I caught Bowel Cancer early enough to make the difference. I now understand Bowel Cancer and so should you
 

Blog 111 Wednesday 30th May2012

Been quite busy lately trying to push my new outlook on life not only have we lost some loved ones early in the year and cancer revisiting my friend Michael our next door neighbour was diagnosed with lung cancer recently and having been taken into hospital due to a collapse was buried two weeks ago. My heart goes out to a very brave lady that I have recently read about.  Melanie Swan-Horton a mother of two from Norfolk, took on a high protein diet and had a dramatic weight loss, size 16 to dress size 10 enduring hours in the gym and unfortunately putting her side effects down to her diet regime and gym. Mel has been diagnosed with Bowel Cancer the actual reason for her weight loss. Mel has had chemotherapy and bowel cancer operation but nothing more can be done the cancer has spread to liver and lungs...........................this very brave lady is terminal.  

Mel's Quote " Before I die I want every man and woman in Britain to know the signs of bowel cancer. I thought I was getting really slim and fit but it was the cancer killing me and other slimmers need to be aware.’"

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2152134/Woman-dropped-dress-sizes-thought-getting-fit-actually-terminal-cancer.html#ixzz1wNhbBQHt


Bowel Cancer UK has been spreading this message

BOWEL CANCER: THE FACTS AND THE SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR

Bowel cancer affects more than 36,500 people in the UK every year.
It is the second most common cancer in women - around 18,400 new cases were diagnosed in the UK in 2009.
The biggest single risk factor is age as the chances of having bowel cancer go up after 50.
1 in 10 people are under 50 when they get bowel cancer - Melanie Swan-Horton (featured) is 46.
Early bowel cancer may have no symptoms. Initial symptoms can also occur in people with less serious problems such as haemorrhoid's.

However, the NHS recommends seeing your doctor if you notice the following:

• Blood in your stools or bleeding from the rectum
• A change to normal bowel habits for a number of weeks – such as diarrhoea or constipation, abdominal pain or a lump in the stomach, unexplained weight loss.
• As the disease progresses it can also cause anaemia leading to fatigue and breathlessness.

If you are worried about any symptoms you can also call the Bowel Cancer UK Support line on 0800 8403540

 

Blog 110 Tuesday 15th May 2012

Previously back in July last year during my Lung operation I blogged about a very nice chap called "Michael" (read here July 2011 Blog) Michael was having the same operation as me, albeit in one lung only but had severe complications. Today I contacted Michael for a chat and was told by Jean his wife that he has developed cancer in his bladder and has recently been fitted with a catheter. When I met Michael, in hospital at that time,  he made my experience in hospital that much better. Michael made me laugh and gave me an opportunity to discuss cancer and chemotherapy for the first time, with someone that had actually gone through it. Michael had been through three bouts of chemo after suffering Bowel Cancer which had also later effected his liver and lung over a twenty year period. Having met Michael briefly during our stay in hospital and later at a consultation again in hospital, I know he will fight this new intrusion and also find time to smile and joke. Our thoughts are with you Michael and Jean.   

Blog 109 Sunday 13th May 2012

It is my birthday today and I've been thoroughly spoilt. I have seen or spoken to the majority of my family who have all wished me well.......................................... I can't help thinking; it could have been a lot different. A year ago, I was considering the worst scenario. For it was on the 13th May 2011, a year ago today, I had my CT scan that identified the bowel cancer had now travelled to my lungs. It was just before the scan that the radiologist joked, "Why was I having a scan on my birthday and that I should find better things to do" ..........after the results  I  could not foresee a future much beyond the immediate. Have faith, Keep faith and Make plans ! that is the best way, I found, to get myself out of the doldrums at that time .

As ever, I keep finding stories to read concerning bowel cancer.

Statins 'cut risk of bowel cancer': Danger 'halved' by cholesterol-busting pills
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2143264/Statins-cut-risk-bowel-cancer-Danger-halved-cholesterol-busting-pills.html#ixzz1umUGjVV5.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BE SURE TO READ THE COMMENTS SECTION ............Comments Section  by persons on Statins

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Blog 108 Wednesday 9th May 2012

Following my 4th Chemotherapy session back in November 2011, I reported to my Oncologist that I had developed a severe case of Tinnitus . I was immediately taken off the chemotherapy drug Oxaliplatin, as this was believed to be the cause. I was told that the Tinnitus, is a rare and unusual side effect of the Toxic drug Oxaliplatin, but may get better after my chemotherapy treatment ends. If you click on the link to Tinnitus above you will see that Tinnitus can be caused by many things. Cold Plays Chris Martin was in the local paper recently with the same condition He said: Quote "There's no doubt it's been caused by years of being on stage and subjected to very loud decibels of music.".         I was told by my Oncologist that I should visit my GP after two months if the symptoms do not get better.

Yesterday I visited my GP, as its been two months, and the ringing in my ears seems worse.  The GP didn't hold out much hope of my condition, but said she would refer me to an  Ear Nose and Throat specialist,(ENT) but first I would be sent for a head scan....... scans now always worry me.

I read a good article in the Mail on-line this week, and although its not directly about Bowel Cancer it is very interesting and Bowel Cancer UK also advocate a healthy eating regime  .The Anti Cancer Diet (Eat Your Way to a Healthier Life) and for all you curry lovers out there please see the next article also from the Mail on-line Curry Favour with your doctor unfortunately with my love of curry over the years it obviously didn't help me, but I'm sure there are some truths in it. Maybe with my love of spices that's why I,m heading towards being a survivor..........