My mom and I....survivors
Friday, March 27, 2009
By: Christy Truesdell

Not long after my father was diagnosed with lung cancer, I was diagnosed with rectal cancer...

My father was diagnosed with lung cancer, and shortly after learned that it had spread into his bones. It was already too late for him, and as his family we had to sit by helplessly and watch him suffer. We could do nothing to ease his never ending pain.

During this time, I ignored many of my own symptoms that were worsening. It was very difficult to be living far away and unable to help my father, so I thought that the symptoms were due to stress. When I finally realized that these were more than just stress, I went for numerous tests, and it wasn't long before I was diagnosed with rectal cancer; stage III.

My family doctor, who had met me only twice before, was the one who had to deliver the news. One of the most difficult conversations I have ever had followed, when I had to tell my mother, who was already overwhelmed with the impending loss of her husband.

Initially, I was told that I would have an illeostomy for the rest of my life, and at 39, this was very difficult to imagine. But after meeting with my wonderful surgeon, Dr. Attard at the Saint John Regional Hospital, I was told it was possible that I would have a reversal.

Not long after, in January of 2008, my father passed away. At this time, I had started chemotherapy and radiation. The treatments were very difficult and unpleasant, but the staff was wonderful and caring. The support I received from my family and friends, and the community in general, was truly overwhelming. I do not believe I could have been so strong without them.

My treatments ended in August of 2008, with only the reversal surgery to come. That was in November, and I am so grateful to be able to live without the illeostomy. Today I am considered cancer free, and hope to stay that way!