I am distraught,My husband Ray passed away last month after developing sepsis after 3 operations in one week to remove colon cancer,I arranged an appointment with surgeon to try and ascertain what happened, he told me the colon cancer would have certainly been there when Ray was diagnosed last April with tongue cancer,Why oh Why didn't the medics do full body scan then,The tumour would have been much smaller then and perhaps an easier operation to remove.I am devastated Ray was only 64 and prided himself on his fitness,he was also my carer as I am disabled.This has ruined two lives I don't have a future without him.

Hello Carol

None of us can second guess what our future will be. There is no point speculating on such matters as they will only sap your strength. Think about what Ray would want you to do - to look after yourself and to learn to live without him. Speak to your doctor about how you feel and ask him to arrange some help for you. Let us know how you are getting on. We are all here to help best we can. Do take care of yourself please.

Best wishes
vinod

Dear Carol I do share your frustration/bewilderment as to why a full body scan isn't carried out as a matter of routine. My father had a tumour behind his windpipe which was successfully treated with radiotherapy only to discover a tumour in his bowel some months later, which he didn't recover from.

Is it cost that prevents the medics from doing a full body scan or are they reluctant to subject the body to 'unneccessary' radiation? I don't know. But, like you Carol, I do feel it could perhaps save lives and/or suffering if only they had all the facts in the first place.

I know there is little to be gained in pondering the 'if only's' and we have to deal with the hear and now but it is only natural to feel cheated and cross and demand some answers to difficult questions on behalf of your darling husband. I just hope you are given the opportunity to put your case and then perhaps you will feel better able to go forward with some peace of mind. With love B x

Let's be honest - it's cost!
All this "watchful waiting" until something shows itself and, as we all know with cancer, it may be too late!

I am really sorry to hear of your loss Carol. Ray was so fortunate to have you supporting him during the time of his illness.

Tony K