Recently diagnosed with a low rectal and penile cancer

my name is Anthony and im 35 years old with 5 children ranging from 11 to 1, I dont smoke drink or take drugs and lived a very active lifestyle before my health started to deteriorate with this cancer. I have been complaining for years of issues in the rectal area and never kept anything from my doctors or chrohns team. Unfortunately I had already been diagnosed with chrohns so that was that lol. My slow growing low rectal cancer has mestastasized to the penile bulb and im newly diagnosed. Im dissapointed I wasn't heard , ive been told some of  my symptoms were impossible, ive had doctors telling me they were more concerned about there cancer patients than me. I have spent every day in a hot bath for up to 5 hrs a day the last 6 month depending on my pain and discomfort levels .I could do a lot of complaining but I am where I am now. Its a scary time and I genuinely feel for anyone who is suffering with any type of cancer just now. I guess im reaching out to see if theres anyone on here with my type of cancer .

  • Hello Tonybhoy

    I'm sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis and that fact that you had been dealing with symptoms for quite some time prior to this. I think it's understandable that you're feling scared and frustrated about things. 

    I wanted to tag in [@Harry2]‍ as a member who has had penile cancer. You might also want to have a look for posts by [@Chris-bug]. We a number of members who have had rectal cancers and hopefully some of them will stop by to post a reply and share their experiences with you. 

    I can see from one of your other posts that you're due to start chemo and radiotherapy ahead of possible surgery. It's good to know that the hospital team have been supporting you with your needle phobia and that you've found some coping mechanisms with meditation and mindfulness. I think most of our members here will agree that a positive mindset is very helpful when going through treatment. 

    If you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses then you're most welcome to call them. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040 and I'm sure they will be happy to offer some advice and support. 

    Do keep in touch Tonybhoy and let us know how you're getting on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Hi Anthony,

    As Moderator Jenn said, I had penile cancer. Thankfully caught early and with only minor surgery required. 

    I'm not a medic, but I have a feeling your own doctors may be uncertain how to proceed next, simply because what you have is so rare. So one piece of advice I would give is to seek a second opinion if you are uncomfortable with their proposed treatment plan.

    I wish you and your family the very best, Anthony. Fate has dealt you a shocking hand. I'm so sorry. Harry