My surgery is scheduled for Tuesday January 22. I have a big tumor but it is high up so the colorectal surgeon has every hope of sparing the lower end, thus no colostomy. I also will not have to have pre radiation or chemo. This has to be a direct answer to prayer. I am quite nervous but extremely thankful for a very competant surgeon with a great reputation, a loving family and friends, and super people even in this web site who don't even know me but write me such kind supportive notes. There is something good about hearing from people who have the same problem. Thanks everyone!