Husband diagnosed recently

Hi these comments really help

Hi Tishy

I hope I am not duplicating my reply which I think I just lost!

It’s a scary time alright. Even worse, I think, for the carer. I was supported by my wife when I was diagnosed in 2014. We went through chemo, surgery, then more chemo together. I was amazed at her strength, as I think she was too! She knew when to ask for help and who to turn to to support her.

We have had such a great time since. I’m not saying that oesophageal cancer was a good thing but we appreciate things more these days. I’ve never been happier.

Dont worry about the chemo too much. Trust in your clinical team. One day at a time.

This is a good place to hear of other people’s experiences. Some will be more recent and up to date than mine.

A couple of tips:

He needs to get or keep fit and active even during chemo (don’t cancel the gym membership) 

Take notes, keep lists of people and events. Who said what. What questions you want answered.

Talk to his clinical nurse about your/his concerns. I was amazed at the professionalism I came across in the NHS doctors and nurses.

Find your strength, amaze yourself. Keep a sense of humour (who can’t laugh at those hospital gowns!)

Good luck. Keep posting.

Hi Tishy, 

I can only echo what Brent's said. I was diagnosed early 2020, I had FLOT chemotherapy then surgery then FLOT again. I handled the chemo better than expected, I didn't lose my hair! The surgery went well, had a leak but they know what they are doing and I soon healed. Second chemo was worse but not unbearable and I was only ill the day after each treatment. Anyway its been just over a year since surgery, I'm healed, well, cancer free and back at work. Trust the doctors, talk to your nurse specialist, don't be afraid to ask questions. Don't think too far ahead, take it 1 day at a time but look forward to a future where you enjoy life more and appreciate everything. Just a month ago I was sat at the top of a cliff with my wife, looking out to sea and was so happy I cried! Keep positive and good luck x

Thanks Brent your response means a lot xxx 

Thanks HullEng appreciate your post means a lot xxx

These posts keep me going

Hi Tishy

Like your husband I was diagnosed just over a month ago, and following a battery of tests and scans the team, and it is a team have decided that I will undergo surgery on November 3rd. It appears that I do not require chemo, so happy with that, but what you have to remember every one of us is different and your team have recommended chemo first. Stay strong for yourself and your husband and ask questions of your team if unsure. Despite all that is broadcast on the news about the NHS I have found that the nurses, surgeons and every one of the hospital have been great. I thoroughly agree with the other comments about getting fit, pre and post op, its very important indeed.

Good luck with the future.

John

Thanks John good luck to you too

ryss hi i was diagnosed 23/12/2021 after 3 scans and 3 camera tests where they took samples i was told cancer had not spread,so my treatment plan was 4 chemo operation then 4 more chemo,first 4 chemos were tough but you are given medication to combat side effects ,after chemo had about 9 weeks before op which i used to build up my strenght walking every day,op was on 30 june at the q e birmingham all went well pain and discomfort well managed with medication and great medical team ,was home after 8 days where recovery continued stayed very positive and had great advice and help from medical team,i am now going for my last chemo thursday they have not been as bad as the first 4 ,i am now cancer free getting stronger and better before the start of my treatment i was scared anxious and nervous but was looked after by a great team who i cant thank enough and my partner sandra so just stay positive and strong and take all advice from youre team its not as bad as y think just stay focused and think of end result cancer free ,i am 61 and looking to return to work in january hope my story will help y and youre husband through treament will be happy to answer any questions y may have all the best ryss

Thank you for the advice