Whatever It Takes

By ruthie

1 min read

Started in November 2018 and had surgery 4 times. Then, I had my 1st treatment of BCG.

Two weeks ago, I had OP surgery to biopsy. To my horror, one tumor that was back, so they will start BCG again on June 15th. I am nervous and scared but you do whatever it takes to stay as well as you can.

Have you ever had a cancer recurrence?

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lindyloo Member
lucky you wasn't given choice told they were taking my bladder away plus my womb etc hate having this bag on me. I'm in my Early 70s and have lived a very healthy life never been in hospital except for 3 child births. I like sunbathing in my bikini but can't now as the bag shows.Its horrible so if you have the choice go for the drugs ant the op
1. Sarah Wallin Community Admin
 Hi <inline-mention user-id="2072586" username="lindyloo"/> , I can't imagine how difficult losing your bladder and other female organs must have been... It can be really difficult to process going through such a big change in your body. You aren't alone in feeling self conscious about it. It can bring many mixed emotions, including grief from losing what you once had. I'm linking two articles about body image after surgery which might be relatable: <a href='https://bladdercancer.net/living/effect-body-image' target='_blank'>https://bladdercancer.net/living/effect-body-image/</a>, <a href='https://bladdercancer.net/living/body-image-reconstructive-surgery' target='_blank'>https://bladdercancer.net/living/body-image-reconstructive-surgery/</a>. Know that this is a safe space and we are always here for you if you ever want to talk. Sending hugs, Sarah (BladderCancer.net Team Member)
2. Crystal Hartranft Member
 Hi <inline-mention user-id="2072586" username="lindyloo"/> I'm so sorry you've had this experience. Going from a healthy and hospital free life to losing your bladder and womb must have been so overwhelming. To lose the freedom you felt to sunbath in your bikini on top of that....I cant imagine. I hope that you're doing well despite the challenges you've faced. Be well, Crystal (bladdercancer.net moderator)
Crystal Hartranft Member
Hi <inline-mention user-id="2066123" username="ruthie"/> I'm so sorry you've had this experience. If you have time and are feeling up to it, it would be great to hear how you're doing. Did the BCG work? Have you had any other complications? We're all here to support and listen to you if you need us. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Be well, Crystal (Bladdercancer.net moderator)
1. ruthie Member
 By the way I had 12 treatments of BCG and no it did not work for me
ruthie Member
My surgeon referred me to MD Anderson hospital in Jacksonville FLA and they started me on chemo once a week for six weeks.. I had follow up surgery where they took 8 pieces of tissue to biopsy.. I am scared to say it out loud (so I am whispering it). This is the first biopsy with no cancer. I start maintenance chemo weekly for 3weeks and then a cystoscope.. if anything looks suspicious, back to the hospital for turbs. If no cancer then I heal and go back for more chemo.. He said I have an aggressive high grade cancer. Now saying all that I am still anxious but thankful I am still here,, sorry to be so wordy but it is so cathartic to say it out loud. I
1. Sarah Wallin Community Admin
 <inline-mention user-id="2066123" username="ruthie"/> - Thanks for getting back with this update. I'm glad to hear your latest biopsy was looking good. How have the rounds of chemo been going for you? The anxiety with bladder cancer and treatments is very real. We're thankful to have you here, and love hearing from you! -Sarah (BladderCancer.net Team Member)
ruthie Member
I start second round of chemo on 12/24 and then 12/31 and then 1/7.. 3 weeks this time .. the chemo seems to be working..I pray that it is.