Hi, my name is Lena and I just found this site the other day and I am so impressed. This site is filled with great information, and wonderful people sharing their personal stories.

I was diagnosed with rectal cancer and underwent chemotherapy and radiation therapy prior to undergoing my proctocolectomy with and ileoanal pouch anastomosis surgery, which was on November 3rd, and re-anastomosis on November 10th. There is so much that I need to learn, the most important one being what to what to avoid some of the uncomfortable side effects.

Lots of information here, and I really look forward to chatting with all of you.

August 2009 diagnosed with Rectal Cancer
Nov. 3rd, 2009 Proctocolectomy with Ileo-Anal pouch anastomosis.
Novemeber 10th Re-anastomosis of Ileo-Anal pouch

Welcome aboard Lena! You may find a lot here referring to IBD issues that will not apply to you, so hopefully you can sift through that and get what you need. We have a number of rectal cancer members and many more with FAP, who will have similar function to you.

Jan

Hi Lena

I just wanted to see how you were getting on as we have the same cancer

Hi!! Its a great site. I agree. Wish I'd found it earlier. Might have had a different prep for some of the stuff you go through with all these surgeries and such.

Tanya

Welcome 'home' Lena...This is the one place in your world where everyone will understand, sympathise and lend a cyberhand at helping you through the tough stuff...don't be afraid to ask stupid questions...Because no questions are supid here...we are all here for you...
Sharon