Thank you NHS - fast track really means fast. In less than 5 weeks all tests, diagnosis and treatment planning in place. I feel very lucky with so many of you receiving less fortunate prognosis but I am realistic that this is not going to be a breeze. Prehab because I am not as fit as I need to be to face the oesophagectomy procedure and cope with a lifestyle change while having 4 fortnightly chemo sessions. Not complaining though - - literally only started chemo 3 days ago but getting off very lightly.
MacMillan have been super, we pass their office on the way to Chemo - what a lovely bunch of people - really, nothing is too much trouble. And also as I am sure all of you will concur, they are with you after every test and milestone.
what’s next for me? Getting through the Chemo - staying positive helps as does music. Only one side effect to date and that was forgetting not to touch an egg which has been sat in the fridge at 4degrees - ouch!!
Good luck to all those in your moment and please remember MacMillan are always there to help share your issues.
Hi MusicHelps and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from people who have walked the ‘exact same' cancer journey can help a lot. (I have a completely different cancer).
This New to Community area is like our reception desk where we look to try and direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our dedicated Oesophageal Cancer support group. This will be a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect in with the group please click on the link below…….
…… then once the group page opens click in the [Black - Click to Join - Banner] that appears at the bottom of the page and this will then confirm that you have joined the group.
When you are ready……. you can introduce yourself by putting up your very own post by clicking [+ Create new post] or [ + ] in the top right of the group page.
You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow 3 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 and give support to all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
