Recurring Cancer
I have had bladder cancer four times, three times in the last 18 months. Each time involves a surgery followed by BCG or mitomycin or both. I have another cystoscopy this month to see if it has recurred again. I push myself to always remain positive because attitude is everything. There are many kinds of cancer that are much worse than bladder cancer. Everyday I am thankful that I do not have something more serious.
Hi @jdofna, Thanks for coming here to share. Having your cancer come back three times in the past 18 months must have been so difficult for you. I cannot imagine the toll that has taken mentally. I'm glad to hear you're trying to stay positive despite it all. I'd like to remind you that you're not alone. We hear from many people who struggle with recurrences. Upcoming cystoscopies can bring a lot anxiety. Let us know how you're feeling in the days leading up, and how it goes. We're here for you.
-Sarah (BladderCancer.net Team Member)
thank you for your words of support. As I said, the key is attitude. Remain positive. As long as you have a medical team that carefully monitors you, everything will be okay.
I had multiple recurrences over the last 2 years was offered more treatment or RC I have chosen RC as I don’t want the cancer to spread outside my bladder still dealing is this the right way to go
Hi ending up having a RC 10/10/2020 went well bit sore having a few leaks but feeling good
Hi @shakey! Thanks for the update. Glad to hear you're doing well! Leaks in the beginning is pretty normal. As you get used to putting the appliance on and your body heals more, it gets better. If it doesn't, call the WOC Nurse! I found that once the appliance is on, before I move or do anything, I press and hold the palm of my hand over the stoma for at least the count of 30 and that helps. The part around the hole of the wafer is heat activated, so holding it helps a lot. Glad to see you posting again!
I am 85 (a widower) and feel fine. Carrying on with my daily routines. The main things are going to Mass each morning, then going for an half hour walks and practicing guitar plus study different programs on my computer. When I stop to think about my reoccurring bladder cancer. I get nervous; over the past two years I have had small tumors return; then I go through the scope and BCG. I keep Praying for a Miracle hoping it will not come back. I try to enjoy each day. I do not venture far from the house due to the virus.
My son lives in Norway and we talk on "messenger" each day, this keep me extra happy. I will keep everyone I read about in my Prayers.Hi @bing - It's great to hear you're feeling fine and are able to carry on with your routines. Mass, walks, playing guitar and studying on the computer all sound like great ways to practice your faith and take your mind off things! The nervous feeling about recurrence is all too familiar within the bladder cancer community. The virus has surely put a wrench in things, people are feeling lonely now more than ever. Thank you for keeping our community in your prayers. Know that we are thinking of you and are here for you, too. Best wishes, Sarah (BladderCancer.net Team Member)
I've had bladder tumors surgically removed 4 times and my kidney and ureter removed. I had mitomycin once and Gemcitabine twice. they told my I couldn't get BCG because the tumors were low grade and there was a world-wide shortage of BCG. Where did you go to get BCG?
I got the BCG via my urologists. He is at Holy Cross in fort Lauderdale.
Best wishes.
