I was diagnosed with Oesophagul Cancer back in May 2009, at the time I was a relatively fit 57 year old professional Project Manager with major defence support organisation.The nature of my work meant I was constantly on the move internationally, and never really considered the personal effects until the tumour reared it's ugly head !
Heartburn was considered part of the 'lifestyle'..!
Like most other sufferers, by the time it was diagnosed the tumour was 10cm with a 4cm Hiatus Hernia, so swallowing food was unpleasant to say the least.
The good news after several scans and investigations was that the Cancer was contained and could be operated on after a 9 week Chemotherapy course.
I finished the course last week only to find that I had been infected by the 'Swine Flu' ......confusion reigned as I believed I was suffering from the after effects of the Chemo..! (believe me Chemo is worse than Flu !!)
Anyway I am taking the TamiFlu antidote and feel fine, awaiting a date for surgery to remove the tumour and associated plumbing.!
Although I had originally read the Forum notes from other sufferers I felt that this was a deeply personal experience....funny how attitudes change when you realise what a difference this will make to the rest of your life...
The Username 'Lucky Dave' was part of my ironic sense of humour...partly because of the Swine Flu, but more the fact that I have been the Chairman of a local Macmillan Fund Raising Organisation (MATHS) for the past 5 years..!
This can happen to anyone..I am happy to share my experiences with fellow sufferers / families, and will update as things progress to the operation and recovery...the main thing is be POSITIVE.....
FormerMember
I had the chemo and op 2 years ago now and just waiting fot the 5 year 'rubber stamp' so I'm technically in remission - the op has some side effects but you do recover from it with some minimum - dumping from both ends being the worst but its not too often So - the all the best for your op - Don't listen to the peesimists
As a long term survivor (5 years since my op), I can assure you that there is life after cancer.
Get yourself in a good shape for your operation, gentle exercise and a good diet and you've every reason to be optomistic. Yes, there are some ups and downs but they're not insurmountable and it's surprising how you will find ways of managing any little "plumbing" problems! I'm sure your surgeon will be able to answer many of your questions, so just get ready for the big day.
I'm pleased to announce that I am now back post op and recovering from what was a very traumatic time !
Unfortunately the first operation although allowing for the removal of the tumour was not a complete success as the staples failed on the 'new' stomach..this meant an intensive stay in in Intensive Care including an Induced Coma on Life Support for three and a half weeks...!!
Eventually I was brought back to life and have been fighting back for the last month.
This has incorporated learning to walk / breathe and eat again which takes time and patience.I am still on a 'Liquid Diet' until such time as the damage has repaired itself (Mother Nature).
So as we stand I am now back home and my diet is supplemented by a drip feed of Nutrison 15 hours a day.I can walk around the house and just make it to the local pub ( 1/2 Guiness ) as recommended by my consultant as it is full of iron and other goodies...!
Early days at the moment and waiting for a final endoscopy to confirm all is repaired ready to move onto 'baby food'.
Every day is different and a new source of challenge, however as is proven time and time again with all you wonderful people this is the gift that we have have been given and I personally thank myself every morning that I am one of the lucky ones.
Progress reports will follow, ut if anybody needs more info, please touch base.....
What a fantastic coincidence that I should find your post, as a couple of us just two days ago were wondering where you’d got to. Then here I was looking for something else and came across your unanswered blog. Nobody is ever forgotten here and it seems that your blog didn’t show on the main Blogs page on the 20 November. I scrolled back to have a look and it isn’t there, so you need to get this sorted with James in Admin in case it happens again. We’ve had lots of difficulties with this site, especially navigation and people going missing, so I’m happy to have found you. Why don’t you join us in the Gullet (Oesophagus) Group as a few of us post there, as it’s easier to find each other? Also, I’ve sent you a friend request, so I hope you receive that.
Anyway, you have certainly had a terrible time and a remarkable recovery, and it seems you are doing brilliantly now, all things considered. I’ve heard of people having anastomotic leaks and other major complications, but to be put into an induced coma on life support is incredible. I admire your attitude and positive approach to your recovery, and to be grateful for every day is something I too empathise with. Take a step at a time because recovery is a long and gradual process, especially regarding eating. Whilst we can make small steps forward, there are often steps backwards and I’m telling you this because it is completely normal to have really good days followed by bad ones. The process is slow, but it does get better I promise you.
I shall look forward to your progress reports, with your lovely attitude I’m sure your recovery will be a good one.
Take good care
Love Crystal xx
PS, I too have written to Admin to find out why your Blog didn't show up.
