[clay]

Thank you for being so brave and for sharing your thoughts!!
Having just had my THIRD one in less than a year, I am well versed on these!
Being a Medical Professional, I evaded having these per my PCP's suggestions for the last 10 years.
Last Fall I was referred to a Gynecological Oncologist for some precancerous issues! Before I even saw her, she ordered a colonoscopy..
I was found to have Invasive Adenocarcinoma When I went to see the Gynie Oncol. I asked why did she order that test, but let her know just how appreciative of her doing so I was! My initial surgery was to be with the Robotic Arm and avoid an Exploratory Laparoscopy!
But with the cancer being found, I was referred to a Surgical Oncologist and a plan of action was determined. I was scheduled for a DOUBLE major abdominal surgery ASAP! The double surgeries were to avoid having general anesthesia a second time.
The initial scope the doc used indigo tattoo ink and a metal clip was attached to the tumor. The tattoo was placed at the proximal (closest) and distal (fartherest) margins of said tumor. The clip was a marker. Both these were for Xray visuals and for the surgeon when I was opened up. These markers also let the surgeon know once inside if the tumor was spread any beyond initial findings.
Having this tumor found so very early on and with no further spread, I was truly blessed. I was able to avoid any chemo and radiation! I told my doctor I was going to make cancer my bitch! She loved that!!! My surgeon told me I had dodged a major bullet, as colon cancer is the SECOND leading cause of cancer deaths.
I wish we did pay more attention to the other cancers! I am looking for a navy blue ribbon to wear denoting my Colon Cancer. I AM a survivor! I get tested every 3 months, and will for life now, BUT I happily do so!!!! My prognosis is 59% for a 5 year survival from this kind of cancer!!!
My biggest "concern" was that damn prep. It is polyethylene glycol..generic for Miralax 238G. It leaves a nasty, slimy residue in your mouth for a while...lol.
I wasn't ever concerned about my arse being exposed, the insertion of the camera, nor the "gas". You will get a mild amnesiac (Propofol) and sometimes a dose of Versed...so you won't know or remember much else...I HATE that nasty Prep! lol First time I had a half a gallon, second time I had to do a bottle of Mag Citrate 2 days before, clear liquids, and day before clear liquids, a Dulcolax tab followed by a half gallon of PEG....you drink 8 oz, every 20 minutes followed by a glass of water after each...arrgghhhh. The prep was salty. THIS time, I mixed the Miralax in a 64 oz. jug of Orange Gatorade! You can't eat or drink anything Purple or Red prior to these scopes...lol.....and the gatorade made it much more palatable. Plus my minerals and electrolytes didn't get so depleted!!
Pynk, I send you a big hug and I am with you in spirit my beautiful friend! I can understand your feelings/thoughts on this procedure. For me, I went down to the beach, and just "lost" myself and watched the amazing dolphins. I kept my surroundings only in a positive light, and listened to music. I can psych myself into my zen place like that, and do I did it for surgery and for my scope a few days ago. Having had my third one recently, it is still "worrisome" and afterwards, you say..."this was easier than I thought"..
I, too, did not want to pass gas in public BUT I tell you what, there will be many folks there doing just that. They insufflate the colon to see better...all the tiny folds, creases, and crannies...and you will be bloated and gassy....so passing it is helpful....pride be damned...lol
You can search deep inside to find that peaceful place for you...it is different for all of us..and I send you much love, my beautiful friend!!!
I love you, Pynk!!! and am always here for you!!! May you be at peace and have good results....Clay
BTW I have my mammos yearly and even though I am now minus that uterus, I still have to get yearly vag. cuff pap tests...go figure....lol