I've been going through esophageal cancer for 2yrs now. I have a 14yr son who is now really starting to struggle. I had an esophagectomy a year ago, went into a coma, then came out with various problems in my throat. 6 weeks ago I had an Op to widen my Esophagus so I could eat etc, now my larynx has been damaged. So now I'm back here waiting for an Op to make space so I can breathe. My poor boy comes home from school regularly and there's an ambulance crew attending. He's getting lots of headaches, no appetite/nausea and sleeping a lot. The school pastoral team have been great, but he's not engaging. I've just heard he's been telling people that no-one cares about him or his feelings, and it breaks my heart. Everything I am doing is to try and keep his life as normal as possible for him.
What can I do? I hate to think of him so stressed like this. Dr's? Help!!
One very sad mum
Hi Jobam
Welcome to our community, I hope you find it both informative and supportive.
I can relate to what you talk about as our son went though most of his school career with either his mum or dad being tied up some way in hospital.
One thing you can do is ring the helpline here 0808 808 0000 and speak to the team there - there are some really experienced staff there.
I did find what looks like some useful information on the cancer research website - I know the secret C book seemed quite helpful to us.
We do have a guide here talking to children and teenagers that might be useful.
We also introduced Michael to our local Maggies centre as they can be quite helpful.
<<hugs>>
Steve
