Gullet cancer - new diagnosis

I'm so sorry your Dad has this diagnosis, it's such a young age.  I'm afraid that I can't offer any advice other than for your dad to get a second opinion from another hospital if that's what he wants to do. He's within his rights to ask for a second opinion although I'm unsure whether he has to go through his gp or the hospital he's with to do it.

I hope all goes well, look after yourselves x

Hi lovely. 

I'm sorry to hear this. Unfortunately I'm going through the exact same thing with my mom and everyone has been saying she's never looked so well in her life. It's crazy.

If you get any advice on this I would really like to know as it could help us too. 

Stay safe and sending lots of love 

Laura x

Hi and a warm welcome to the Community. I couldn't give any advice here I'm afraid. An operation couldn't get all of it given that it has spread but it might be best if you call the helpline for advice. They're on 0808 808 0000 and the line is manned by experts who know much more than me.

Hugs,

Hi Jess, 

My Husband was 51 when he was diagnosed similarly, the only difference is that he also has small samples in his lung. In the same way as you we were in absolute shock, to be told that it was not possible to operate, only palliative care.  Firstly, I totally understand your need to know if it is possible for an operation, I hope someone who has a medical background can help you find the answers that you are looking for. Secondly I just wanted to say, that the current treatments can offer great results and I hope that you Dad starts on his chemo soon, to ensure he has the best results. 

From an old school perspective, I know that they never used to operate once a cancer had spread, due the chance of the cancer cells spreading faster once exposed.  I believe that this is the reason that my Husband has not been given any chance of surgery.  I even asked the question in relation to the chemo removing all the signs of secondaries, would they then operate, the clear answer was no! so if you do find someone who can offer you a greater understanding as to why these decisions are made, I too would like to hear it. 

I have started a blog, https://community.macmillan.org.uk/blogs/b/facing-the-future-together  our journey up until the end of June from diagnosis. I will be adding more once we here from the consultant on Monday... If you need anyone to chat with, I am on here most days... Take Care 

Lowe'

Hi Jess36232

If haven’t posted anything before on here but I can connect with your situation. I  too am 51 and was diagnosed with stage 3 OC in Feb this year after a short run of not being able to eat and subsequent weight  loss. Biopsy, PET and CT scans showed a spread to my stomach and lymph nodes so no surgery for me either. Because of my age and good health I was put on the list for immunotherapy (due to start after chemo 6) but due to Covid-19 the trial is closed. So yesterday I had my 8th chemo and now have a 2 to 3 month break. During this time my tumour has shrunk by a third, my lymph nodes are ok and stomach is clear.  I can eat normally again and apart from the fatigue and off days as a result of the treatment, life is back. I don’t want this to come across as a ‘well done me’ but just as a way to share something positive with you. The diagnosis may have taken us down a different path but all I can say to you and your family is stay positive. If your dad is in good health (apart from the obvious), hold those thoughts. Talk about it. Say he looks well. Flattery works wonders when you’re feeling a bit low!  But above all, don’t let cancer define him - or you. Focus on what you all have not what you don’t, on what you can do, not what you can’t. Because of his age and health he will have the strength to deal with what lies ahead. This is the next chapter of your story, and one which you all really fo have the power to decide how it goes. Stay strong. Stay positive.