I happened to read that you have posted twice to get some answers. I also saw that there were no answer replies. I wish I could help you directly but I have kidney cancer and it's a totally different cancer that rectal. What I can do for you is:
#1 ...here's the website link to the Cancer Compass rectal cancer message board. http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/cancers/rectal-ca I'd imagine that you can find out your answers.
#2 ... as an unfortunate 'member' of this cancer family, I'd be happy to help you find answers if you are unable to. I'm 55 years old and I definitely can relate to your comment about memory loss, especially when it concerns all this new info about cancer. What I have done is buy a notebook and then either write down information that's important to my cancer or.....when I'm feeling to lazy to do that......I just copy and paste the info and send to my email address, then I print it out, and tape or glue it into my notebook. I have a medical background (10 years Navy 'medic') so I understand a lot about the body and the terminology used for all this. If you get confused or concerned about something like that, please feel free to email me at sweb02@hotmail.com You are NOT alone in all this and will all the good message boards, chat rooms and people willing to help......please never try to go through this alone. If you find yourself in a day where you just need to talk to someone.....just email me. I'm here and I'm willing. For now......give yourself a big hug, cuz you deserve it, just for getting the courage to start to understand all about your husband's health. Give him a big hug too.....just cuz hugs heal in small but important way's. Take care.
Sandy