Hi All
Im not really new to this site I guess I've used it for 6 weeks or so now and believe it or not Ive just worked out how to send a blog. (by that I mean a new blog as I have replied to others) Thats if Im doing it right in first place. Anyway my husband starts chemotherapy on Tuesday a combination of Epirubicin Cisplatin and Capecitabine (Xeloda) he was diagnosed early Oct with oesophagal cancer told unable to operate as its spread and chemo will hopefully give him quality ie eating etc. Im still careful how many questions I ask scared to really although so far the oncologist doctors etc answer what we do ask. My husband never asks its almost just get on with it for him. I have spoke to some wonderful people already re oesophagal cancer so I guess I wondered if any one has had this combination of chemo and how its gone for them. I was gonna leave the blog until after Tuesday but my mornings not a good one very weepy and Im trying to occupy myself a little.
Im getting where i wonder if I spend too much time on here as usually wouldnt have too much time on my hands with work etc although Ive not been recently just wanting time with hubby ( he's not into computers at all unless its black n white and kicks a ball he doesnt want to know lol ) It is a wonderful site for support though well done everyone for just being there I guess.
Anyway back to important bit anyone familiar with ECX
Thanks for help
Maria
x
FormerMember
I would say, trust your oncologist. Ask for a Macmillan nurse, or if there is a senior sister around in the Cancer /chemo unit, ask her how you get allocated one. She will either find one for you, or tell you "I'm it."
There's not much you can do at the moment except wait and see how the chemo works out. Make sure he has anti nausea medication and something for any other of the common side effects with his chemo. He will need to rest as much as possible while he is on it. and it is a good idea to drink a lot of water and other drinks to help flush it out of his system. I have never been able to swallow cold water, so I have a couple of litre bottles full in the bedroom and fill my carafe from those. At least it takes the chill off the water.
A little exercise won't hurt. A gentle walk for 15 minutes or more a day is useful, especially if it gets you both out in the fresh air. Try to do it in daylight so that you are less likely to have SAD syndrome (Seasonal Affective Disorder) brought about by lack of light in winter. It is also a good antidote to worry, as it blows the cobwebs away.
Other people will come on to give support, but keep posting and let us know how you get on.
I know that sometimes it's difficult to ask for information for fear of being swamped by it and the fear of what it all might mean. However, you're doing great in asking a little at a time so that you are better prepared. You'll find the following link explains ECX in detail. I hope it helps.
