Hi I'm new here. My mum who is 76 has been diagnosed with oesophagus cancer.
She has barrets oesophagus, was diagnosed with that about 10 years ago. The cancer diagnosis came about because she was struggling to swallow and had a small trace of blood in her poo. So she underwent a camera observation and it was found from that.
The poo issue has resolved and aside from the swallowing she is feeling fine. She still goes to a trainer twice a week for gentle exercises and even uses very light weights. So this diagnosis has shocked us.
She has had a PET scan and has an appointment tomorrow to discuss results of that and treatment options.
I'm going with her but we are not sure what to expect or what questions to ask.
We know it's been caught early, is 1cm and is 33cm down the oesophagus. Does this mean a more positive outcome will be achieved?
We are scared as her brother had it and within 6 weeks of diagnosis he passed away. (He lived in Australia so different screening procedures maybe?)
Any advice would be welcome. Many thanks
Hi Pebbles75 and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but sorry to hear about your mum's diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis like this can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type or support challenges will help you a lot……. I have a completely different type of cancer and treatment journey.
This New to Community area is like our reception desk where we look to 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)....... but I do see that you have already joined and put up a post in our dedicated Gullet (oesophagus) cancer support group.
This group 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 support journey.
As for the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your mum and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our……
Supporting someone with incurable cancer (If this is applicable)
……. support groups where you will connect with a wide range of members navigating the exact same support challenges.
It is an emotional time supporting family so you might find this Macmillan information your feelings when someone has cancer helpful as well as this link getting help with your emotions.
The Macmillan Support Line is open between 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.
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 navigating the community.
Hi thank you for your reply.
I will join the carers group.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
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