Hello,
I'm new to this group, and not sure where to start but I just wanted to connect with anyone who may be experiencing a similar situation. My Dad has recently been diagnosed with oesophageal cancer a few weeks ago. It has absolutely shocked us. They have termed it locally advanced cancer and Dad is only at the beginning of this awful journey. He has had numerous tests, scans etc and we are seeing the oncologist today. He is looking at having chemo, then surgery, then more chemo after that. I know he is worried as am I. Dad lives alone, although I live next door (an absolute blessing!) The consultant explained that Dad is in the high risk category for surgery, which worries me, but the surgery is the only chance of a cure. We know it's a very long and uncertain road ahead, but if anyone has any similar expetiences, I would be grateful if you could share them.
Claire
Hi Claire CMJ78and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your dad's diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but reaching out to the community will give you the opportunity to ask questions and getting support from others who are on the ‘exact’ same journey.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you consider joining our supportive Gullet (oesophagus) cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family and friends you may also benefit from joining our Carers only (that I see you have joined) support group where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
To join a group first click on the “Bold Link” I have created above then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)
You can then put up your own post when you’re ready by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post. You can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.
Our Support Line teams are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00, email or live webchat where you will find one of team there to help you out. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
