Malignant bowel obstruction. Is it always bad?

[barkley]

We lost our brother to colon cancer so I’m sure that is weighing heavily on my sister. And their life isn’t the best. They are living in a hotel and doing their best to get by. They were getting into a groove where they were able to be self sufficient and pay their bills. BIL didn’t choose short or long term disability at open enrollment and he has not been at his job for more than a year so he can’t use FMLA. But, none of that matters. He is optimistic, based on what the doctors have said.

they need to connect with a social worker at the hospital who can get them fast-tracked for any and all supportive services and advocacy they have available to them.

 

[floridafam]

He is out of surgery. It took 4 1/2 hours. They got the cancer and blockage and also had to do something with the kidney/ureter. He has a bag and will have that for at least six months. They do not know about chemo yet. He was still in recovery. My sister took a video of the Dr explaining everything and she will send that to me tomorrow. Overall, it sounds positive.

 

[floridafam]

He was up and walking today and they are going to remove the tube from his nose later tonight. Someone casually mentioned him possibly going home Friday. He also spoke with a social worker.

 

[fla4fun]

My mom had a bag for a while after colon surgery. She was able to order a pack of sample bags to see which brand worked best for her. I don’t know if that is still an option, but the doctor or hospital may know. It took us a few days to get the hang of it so that it would stay on, but once we mastered that, it was fine.

I am glad the surgery went well and that the outlook sounds positive. I hope his recovery goes well also.