Editor’s note: Minor edits have been made for readability, including the addition of subheadings, while keeping Lorraine’s voice and experience true to her original submission. Support resources are also shared at the end of this page.
My cancer diagnosis and treatment
I am 66 years old and live in the north-east of Scotland. I was diagnosed with anal cancer at the beginning of 2025. I started chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment in March of the same year. I coped quite well with the treatment, but recovery was another story.
Recovering after treatment
I experienced extreme pain when toileting, bad radiation burns and fatigue like you would not believe. I tried to go out for small walks, as near to the house as possible because I needed to open my bowels frequently and had to be near a toilet. I had a few bad accidents, which were mortifying.
Losing confidence
Going on an aeroplane for a much-needed holiday was overwhelming, and I suffered panic attacks before and after the flight. While in Tenerife, I had a bad accident on the way back to the hotel. It was overwhelming and put me off going on future holidays.
I was given the all clear from cancer in October 2025. However, I have found it difficult to walk because of pain in my back and legs. I cannot walk for more than five minutes without having to stop and sit down. This has affected my confidence in leaving the house because I cannot walk anywhere without pain, and totally lost confidence in case I have more embarrassing accidents.
Living with the long-term effects of treatment
At a meeting with my oncologist a month ago, I was advised that the radiotherapy had caused weakness in my bones. I had another MRI scan and was given suppositories (for bowel symptoms) to try for eight weeks. Scotland is far behind when it comes to awareness of Pelvic Radiation Disease (PRD).
Useful links
- Pelvic Radiation Disease Best Practice Pathway
Designed for healthcare professionals caring for those with PRD, it is also a valuable resource for people living with PRD, seeking to understand their care options and advocate for better support. The PRD Best Practice Pathway covers information on the symptom areas that can be impacted by PRD.
Support for you
If Lorraine’s story resonates with you, and bowel symptoms have affected your confidence or made leaving home feel daunting, you’re not alone. Our Out and About Toolkit is designed to help you feel more prepared and supported when you’re on the move. It includes practical resources such as a RADAR key and a ‘Just Can’t Wait’ toilet card, helping you feel more confident and independent when you’re out and about.
We understand that living with PRD can feel isolating. Connecting with others who understand can make a real difference. Our peer support services provide safe spaces where people affected by PRD can connect with others, share their experiences, ask questions, and find support from people who truly understand.
PRD Online Community is a safe and supportive online forum for people living with PRD to connect with others, share experiences, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of the wider community.
Chat Together is a welcoming peer support group that meets twice a month on Zoom, so you can join from the comfort of your own home. It’s an informal space where people living with PRD can talk openly, share their experiences, and support one another.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, or struggling with your mental health please know that you’re not alone and support is available. You can find help through the links below, or by speaking to your GP or a trusted healthcare professional.
- You can find a range of support options at Mind if you are struggling with your mental health.
- If you are struggling to cope you can contact the Samaritans free helpline, any time day or night on 116 123.
- For urgent medical concerns, contact NHS 111.
updated 1st July 2026