Good evening to all,
My name is Walt and I'm new here. I'm 32 y/o from Alabama.
I was diagnosed with FAP back in 2004. My family (mother's side) has a history of colon cancer. Back then my physician suggested I see a gastroenterologist. I saw one and after a colonoscopy, he informed me that I had FAP. He then suggested I needed my colon removed. He referred me to a surgeon, who was able to perform the removal with J-pouch construction. I've had it for a little over 10 years now. I've been having some upper and lower endoscopies about every 2 years. I had the same exam done a few days ago. The doctor informed me that he found some polyps in my J-pouch and some in my duodenum, at least more than I should have. He discussed the results with my surgeon, then informed me that they are both in agreement that I should see a specialist in such rare cases. They are referring me to the Mayo Clinic. I must have to say that I'm beyond terrified at this point. I don't know what to expect, and as human nature, we tend to be afraid of the unknown. Some of my family members/friends suggested that maybe participating in a forum may help release some of the worries and stress regarding this situation. That's basically my story. I'm just so afraid of what's going to happen next. Anyways, I thought I'd share my story.
Thank you very much for reading.
-Walt
My name is Walt and I'm new here. I'm 32 y/o from Alabama.
I was diagnosed with FAP back in 2004. My family (mother's side) has a history of colon cancer. Back then my physician suggested I see a gastroenterologist. I saw one and after a colonoscopy, he informed me that I had FAP. He then suggested I needed my colon removed. He referred me to a surgeon, who was able to perform the removal with J-pouch construction. I've had it for a little over 10 years now. I've been having some upper and lower endoscopies about every 2 years. I had the same exam done a few days ago. The doctor informed me that he found some polyps in my J-pouch and some in my duodenum, at least more than I should have. He discussed the results with my surgeon, then informed me that they are both in agreement that I should see a specialist in such rare cases. They are referring me to the Mayo Clinic. I must have to say that I'm beyond terrified at this point. I don't know what to expect, and as human nature, we tend to be afraid of the unknown. Some of my family members/friends suggested that maybe participating in a forum may help release some of the worries and stress regarding this situation. That's basically my story. I'm just so afraid of what's going to happen next. Anyways, I thought I'd share my story.
Thank you very much for reading.
-Walt