Hi, my dad was diagnosed with grade 2 cancer of the oesophagus, after initial diagnosis we were told surgery would be the way to go. After weeks of further tests and waiting for results the option for surgery has gone as the cancer has spread to his neck near his carotid artery. He has just had a stent fitted in his oesophagus and we are waiting for a date to start chemo.
I dont really know how I feel as I kind of feel numb about it all and when alone break down as I need to be strong for my mum and dad.
I say my mum and dad as we are already carers for my mum and now I am a carer for both, whilst working full time and trying to have time with my family. I feel I cant talk to my mum or dad as:
1) I have to be strong for my dad as he is the one going through this so I need to be there and support him.
2) my mum had a stroke 5 years ago and talking to her will only work her up and make her panic more than she already is.
I just feel a bit lost and emotional.
Sorry for rambling on x
Hi and welcome to the Online Community, although I am sorry to see you finding us and so sorry to hear about your dad.
A cancer diagnosis can indeed bring a lot of stress, confusion and questions on all the famil but talking with people who are on the same journey can help a lot
Can I first direct you to this link to our very supportive Gullet (oesophagus) cancerrain tumour group as this will open up your concerns to a wider audience who know exactly what you are going through at the moment.
Just follow the link above, hitting ‘Join the Group’ tab just under the main group name, then go to the 'Start a Discussion' tab and set up your own Discussion and introduce yourself to the group - you could just copy an paste what you have in this first post.
As I was the person with the cancer my experience of supporting someone is very limited, although my wife has been amazing over my 20 years. You may also find our Careers Only and Friends and Family group a good place where you can connect with others support family through their cancer journey but more importantly the carers care for each other.
You may find our various Macmillan Support Line Services to be helpful - call them on 0808 808 00 00 This free service covers Emotional Support, Practical Information. Clinical Information, Financial Support and Work Guidance mostly open 8.00 to 8.00 but check the link.
We also have our ‘Ask an Expert’. section where you can post questions to our mostly Volunteer Experts but please allow 2 working days to get a reply.
All the very best.
