OC

HI kells, sorry to hear this, my partner had the surgery in May time, although it hasn't been easy we just had our first holiday 6 months later so try to stay positive.  It is hard work after the op but the positive attitude definitely helps, he has had pains still in ribs and a few smaller issues but otherwise he is doing great and they said they got all they could see, he had chemo after surgery also.  I wish you all the best I hope your family can support you through it.x

Thank you for the positive reply. Feel a bit better after reading that. Its terrible when I'm reaching out for support but its not there. My close circle of friends have been very kind but others won't speak to me as they don't know what to say. That really hurts! We hope to go on holiday next year when I've recovered. The nearer the date gets the more terrified I feel. Had counselling but it doesn't do much good. Feel more confident after talking to Upper GI nurses at hospital but they have their work to do so can't be talking to me all the time.

Im sure your very anxious as its big surgery but try to think of it as life saving especially if you have kids.  As I say its not easy and there are hurdles and everyone responds differently but do try to think of afterwards when you are getting better, this time next year you should be on your feet and recovering well and able to look forward to doing things again, I do wish you all the best and hope it goes well for you.  I found people just don't know what to say or how to react but im sure your friends would be there for you if you opened up to them and asked them to chat or be around a bit more x

Hi Kells.  My husband underwent the procedure late September this year and two weeks ago returned to work.  If you would like to speak with him directly for support, please respond to this message and we will arrange contact details.  We both understand how daunting the unknown future seems, but can only endorse what has already been said, a positive mind although a huge hurdle on occasion is the best way to tackle your impending operation.  Where are you being treated??

Hi! I had the operation about 8 weeks ago. I can look after my house and kids again and just started driving again. I’m starting a phased return to work in the new year. You’ll be surprised how quickly you start recovering once you get out of hospital. You might need some help with getting about, doing your shopping and around the house. Ask now between your friends when they are able to give you a hand for the couple of weeks when you get come home. Just be brave find out exactly what support rather than trying to second guess what everyone is thinking.
You’ll be in safe hands for the op. You’ve just got to trust the surgeons. It’s the best chance of surviving the cancer x

So pleased to hear you are doing so well after your operation.  Trust in the surgical team is exactly what my husband says, no matter how hard it is, follow their guidance and trust their knowledge and advice.  We are currently awaiting details of the second 'sandwich' chemotherapy, which although not relishing the thought of, know is an absolute must for the completion of successful treatment.  Have you been advised when your next chemo will commence?

Thanks for reply. My operation is at James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, North East England. Its supposed to be one of the best cancer care hospitals in North East. I had my pre-op chemotherapy there but didn't have any major problems with it so I have no qualms about having it again, post op, if I need it. How old is your husband by the way? I am 65. You can put me in touch with your husband if you like.

Thats a brilliant story of recovery from such major surgery. I am having my surgery at James Cook hospital in Middlesbrough, North East England. Its a very good hospital so I've heard. A friend of a friend had major surgery for ovarian and bowel cancer at James Cook. It involved hysterectomy and part of bowel removed at same time. She said "whatever treatment they offer, accept it! They know what they're doing!" I'll have to remember that advice. My husband and grown up children will be around to help. 

On practical note. What did your husband take into hospital? Would a dressing gown or bed jacket be best. What about underwear and toiletries? I understand the hospital lockers aren't that big so I don't know what size holdall to take.

Hi Kells, I am scheduled for the operation this coming Monday. I was scheduled to have the operation on the 31st of October but due to steroids that my GP had given me the week before the op, the anaesthetist wanted to do further checks. The surgeon was late as well and the further checks revealed that I had phlegm that could have affected my lungs during the operation. They suspected a chest infection and the operation was cancelled. I was extremely upset at the time as I had mentally prepared myself for it, I had the gown, the socks on and the porter was about to wheel me into theatre. It was explained to me that the surgical team, right up to the second you go in for surgery will check everything and postpone if there is anything present that will affect a 100% safe environment. A later scan revealed that I did have a chest infection that healed after a dose of anti biotics. Trust your team. Least of all, their reputation is at risk and being dedicated health workers they want every success. I am putting my life in their hands, we have no choice. I also cry at every Christmas advert but I know I have the best chance of playing with my 5 year old daughter again by having this cut out. Others don't get that chance. I have been feeding through a tube for 3 months now, lost 5 stone andI have been isolating at my holiday home for the last 2 week so as not to get any type of infection. It is hard but a must. Stay strong, good luck and try and have some faith in yourself and the professionals. You are stronger than your anxiety would have you think, Bill