MMHlaing, Myanmar

I noticed weight loss and constipation with occasional bleeding per rectum for over a month. Despite being a doctor myself, I did not want to believe that it was anything serious, so I told no one. Only when bleeding appeared daily did I discuss it with my wife, who immediately arranged for a check-up at the hospital. Examinations and investigations confirmed the diagnosis of colon cancer. I was fortunate to be managed by a multidisciplinary team of experts. They advised surgery with neoadjuvant therapy (chemotherapy & radiation) in line with evidence-based guidelines for colon cancer.

The biggest challenge was in the immediate post-operative period. I was half awake and heard that my blood pressure was high and cardiac enzymes were elevated. In a confused state, I tried to pull off the IV drip lines. I felt that I was going to die. Also, living with a colostomy bag for eight months was miserable. After stoma closure, the problems of frequent bowel movements, incomplete defecation needing manual removal, and fecal incontinence were a nuisance.

My surgeon leaned over me and assured me that all went well, that my tumor was small and had been successfully removed. The words calmed my fears. When I fully woke up, seeing my wife sitting beside me and the hospital staff promptly attending to my needs with compassion gave me confidence that I was in good hands and not going to die. My wife again patiently took care of the difficulties and comforted me. The inspiring words of my friend (also a surgeon) encouraged me too. He said, "Don't worry, friend, chemotherapy nowadays can give a complete cure.

The accessibility to treatment and follow-ups at the hospital, and the continued care and kindness shown by the doctors and staff, was a real blessing for me. The chance to have access to regular follow-ups and constant care by my oncologist and the hospital team helped enormously. Knowing that I can always depend on them anytime was a great comfort. At my final follow-up visit, the surgeon fully assured me that I will not be needing a repeat endoscopy for the next 10 years. Those words really boosted my morale.

Seek advice without delay. You are the first person who will know when something is not right. Nowadays, cancer can be cured. You only need to seek early treatment with the right healthcare professionals. I am 85 years old now. It's been 9 years since the illness started. Thanks to the proper healthcare I received, I am still alive and well.

This story was published with the consent of Shwe Young Hnin Si Cancer Foundation, Myanmar.