Life changing surgery
43 year old male diagnosed July 2022. Done the chemo and radiation but time to make that hard call to have the bladder removed which I have been advised is the best option. Scared no... Anxiety levels high though. Anyone that has had this done that can share their knowledge would be great. Thank you.
- Welcome to this amazing site filled with very supportive people. I am one of many on here who had RC. I am female and was 63 when I chose that path, but have never regretted it. I was stage one and not medically trained by assume from your treatment that you are stage 2 or higher. Prior to surgery I suggest discussing with your doctor what the best diversion would be for you and speaking with someone who has that diversion if possible. I am sure there is someone on here who would help out. Having a positive attitude, a good surgeon and knowing that you will get through this just fine are valuable. Do not over research as there is good and bad online. Being in good physical condition can be beneficial with this surgery as it is long and zaps your energy for a while. I was in the hospital for 5 days and was walking every day while there and after. It definitely helps with the healing and getting your digestive system working properly again. Being hydrated is imperative so plan to drink plenty of water from here on out if you do not. Give yourself time to heal and know that it is not an overnight journey. Rest when you need to and eat small simple meals for a while. I am almost 9 years post RC and wear a bag. I am at least as active as I was before surgery. I wish you the best and suggest that you reach out with any questions or concerns that we may be able to help with. Linda Urbanski (moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member) 46 year old with bladder cancer. I was told I should get my bladder out but then I started Keytruda 6 months ago, both of my scans since starting Keytruda have been cancer free. I will be on it for 2 years.
just curious if you had a second opinion or was this another option your doctor proposed? What stage were you diagnosed with if I may ask? Linda Urbanski (moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member) 
so glad to hear you are cancer free. Wishing you continued good health. Laura, Moderator, BladderCancer.net
Hi. Firstly, I will tell you the surgery is tough and the recovery is tough too. Secondly I will tell you however you can and will get through out. Thirdly, I will tell you, there is life after surgery. I was just turned 41 at the time of my surgery, almost 6 years ago. I live a full life and work full time in a senior position and love to travel, long haul from Scotland for holidays to the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean. You may find this a useful link: https://bladdercancer.net/living-with-a-urinary-diversion Let us know how you go. Laura, Moderator, BladderCancer.net
