Hi I’ve been commenting on some posts and thought I’d introduce myself ..Married to John age 65 who was diagnosed last August with Oesophageal cancer ..Initially assessed at T3 N1 M0 but after surgery reassessed at T2 N0 M0 ..We’ve just come through thirteen months of gruelling diagnostics and treatment ..The diagnostics themselves took six months (long story) followed by seven months of treatment in total consisting of Four pre surgery FLOT chemo sessions which he came through with no complications but it was tough going with the side effects.This worked very well in reducing the bulk of his tumour so he was reassessed for a Two part minimally invasive oesophagectomy surgery which took place on 14 th December ..Eight hours in theatre ..three days in the critical care unit and home after eight days ..No major complications so we consider him fortunate in that respect ..Six weeks recovery and then he was scheduled for four adjuvant FLOT chemo sessions ..John completed two but then it was halted as John’s body started to show the strain ..he also developed a particularly nasty lung infection two days after the second session ..so taking this as a sign of Enough was Enough ! both he and his oncologist agreed to discontinue with the remaining two adjuvant chemo sessions to avoid any further detrimental affects to his long term recovery..So treatment ended mid March …It’s been a rollercoaster of a ride to say the least and despite a pretty much straightforward treatment process the past thirteen months have taken their toll on John physically and psychologically despite him being a very fit man prior to his illness .. although it has to be said the substantial weight loss and the debilitating symptoms from the OC during the long diagnostic process played a large part in his downward spiral for a time ..I think that was a worse experience for him than the actual treatment ! ..John is now hopefully cancer free ..but he isn’t treatment issue free and it will take time and determination to adapt to a new normal…It’s a unique experience to each individual ...Our GP described it as a massive life experience to go through and our hearts go out to all fellow sufferers.. as it truly is ! ..So now we’re at the stage where he will be monitored over the next five years ..every three months for the first year ! .After a lengthy time dealing with hospitals ..appointments ..treatments etc ..it’s a very strange place to find yourself in ..On one hand you’re feeling very grateful for everything that has been done for you and feel relieved it’s all over but on the other hand you’re left feeling ..’What now??’ ..Of course days are taken up with John’s new eating regime .. (A full time job in itself weighing up portion control and balancing fats and sugars in food in an attempt to avoid the dreaded ‘Dumping episodes’ !! ) along side his medication routine and exercise to build up his muscle wastage from the weight loss ..He still has a JEJ feeding line to help with nutritional assistance but it’s only used when we feel he needs a top up if he’s had an ‘off eating day’ …. On top of looking after two dogs and running a home !.. Phew! …They say health comes first and of course it does but trying to keep some sense of normality whilst going through this experience is without doubt hard work ! ..We have five adult children and twelve grandchildren who have been a great support throughout everything though and they help whenever they can !
Apologies for the long introduction but this is just a short version of our story ..If I went into detail it would be very lengthy indeed ..I’ve found this forum both very helpful and informative..It really is good to express your feelings and talk .. Sincerely wishing you all the very best in your own unique experiences…..Never give up hope x
