I am fortunate to be a colon cancer survivor. In my case the cancer was not discovered until it was very advanced. I learned later that the chances of recovery in this type of situation are very low. With the help of many caring people and the grace of God I am now over eight years old (time since diagnosis) and enjoying life with some limitations but all in all not that bad.

I am not sure how much one person's experiences can help another person as each is unique. I do think that finding ways to be positive and determined are important.

People will do various levels of investigation and research depending on their circumstances. I tend to think that one should not over analyze the problem. It is a "project" that one needs to be responsible for and manage as the treatments are administered and results become available. Do not relegate the decision making to the Doctors. The patient needs to know the implications and possibilities of a procedure and decide for themselves. Also be mindful that doctors are not particularly good about talking with one another in difference clinics or specialities. You as the patient need to be satisdied that the communication is working and the new suggestions are being made with the knowledge of the actions already taken.

It is often a difficult journey filled with discomfort and/or pain but one must remember that "where you are now is not the only possibility". If the cancer patient is fortunate to have good care then the discomfort is only for a limited time and then things will be different. My advice about probabilities of success that people sometimes seek when considering options is that their importance is overrated. The potential outcome either will or will not be helpful. Ask for a simple explaination of the alternatives. Select a course of action. See what the results are and then make a new decision. No need to "what if" the outcomes, just go on to the next thing.

Whether one is afflicted with cancer or some other medical condition it is important to "accept what is". In my case I have several limitations related to diet and body functions that affect how I and our family unit live our remaining lives and interact with one another. This reality takes a bit of time to accept and accomodate and time to develop new interests and ways of doing things. With luck and determination it is posible to take the steps to work out solutions to these needs and be happy with being able to contribute to the broader community.