Hello. I have had radio & chemo therapy and now must decide about surgery. At 78years old I am not sure if it is worth the trauma and long recovery period.
I would love to hear from members of this forum about their experiences and views.
It’s difficult to say anything, it is such a personal decision. The recovery period varies greatly from person to person, were you a fit 78 year old before your diagnosis? The ‘do I, don’t I’ dilemma is one nobody wants to face, I hope you are getting good support emotionally as well as medically.
My husband was 56 when he had his oesophagectomy so a fair bit younger but he recovered well from a very rough start. I think he would always say go with your own instinct, nobody knows your body better than you do.
I haven’t helped at all, I know, but I wish you all the best.
I was 49 years old when I had my oesophagectomy and didn't once consider not having it to be honest; only real downside for me is that I have to swerve the jam doughnuts these days as they don't agree with me !! There is clearly a big age gap between us though and you will know what's best for you, so yes, go with your instinct, I hope it works out (I had 5 year endoscopy at APH/Wirral just yesterday and still clear so will be discharged soon enough); I do realise how lucky I have been and count my blessings each and every day!
