audivotary

Hi All, Well, after 32 days I finally came home from the hospital Sunday 7/31. My surgery was successful in that the tumor was completely removed from my rectum, and none of the lymph nodes were affected. However, two weeks later I had a second surgery to remove a sponge and insert drains for infected fluid deposits. Next I developed a blockage in my intestines and couldn't eat or drink for a week while it cleared. So what was supposed to be a week in the hospital turned into four.

When I got out, it felt like being released from prison. We went for a drive around the city and it was quite fun. The last week has been mostly sleeping and some walking. Hopefully I'll have some strength back to start radiation and chemo on 8/22. I hope to tackle a stack of bills this week.

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. I may still need them in the upcoming weeks.

Best regards, Tom Hess

PS: Now for a little crusade I'm on: If you are 50 (male or female) and haven't had one yet, call your doctor tomorrow and schedule a colonoscopy. You can prevent an ordeal like mine with early testing. It is not a big deal, especially compared to the alternatives. A colonoscopy not only is early detection, it is a method of removing polyps before they grow into cancerous tumors. Many primary care doctors casually discuss this test, but don't insist on it. My feeling is that they should push their patients to get it done.

Acceler8

you will be in our prayers. best of luck with the chemo.

tonypai

Best wishes on a speedy recovery.

Dan McBoost

.... will test your strength and will, but are necessary and helpful. Keep your head up, and remember that a single smile does wonders.

Cheers to a healthy recovery,

Return 4 Deposit

Good friend of mine went through the same thing recently. Early detection saved his life. He had no symptomns.

He is doing great now. You can tell he has a greater appreciation for life.

Best of luck to you and godspeed to a 100% recovery!

8 misbehavin

Best wishes Tom and great advice for the rest of us. Thx.

PaulW

:-)

Great news!

airbil

On behalf of all the forum semi lurkers and partial interlopers, best wishes for a speedy recovery!

audivotary

Thanks. The reminder to smile is valuable.