Just got back from hospital, looking like oesophageal junction cancer, 5cm in length. Pretty worried about my outlook. Waiting for Biopsy results after 8 samples taken. Don't know what lies ahead, early in the process. Pretty lost.
I was diagnosed back in March, same size and position as yours. Had the four sessions of FLOT therapy which wasn't as bad as I'd expected and did the job of reducing the tumour. I'm now awaiting the operation but can honestly say I'm feeling okay, eating is pretty much normal and I've put on weight too!
Sorry you're on this dreaded journey. I remember how bewildered/freaked out I felt when I was newly diagnosed and just home from the hospital after the endoscopy. My tumour was also 5cm at the junction with stomach. They'll be doing a few more tests and scans to stage the cancer - CT scan, PET scan, laproscopy and bike test. Like Bob my swallowing difficulties resolved after a few rounds of FLOT chemotherapy. Give yourself a moment to digest all of this. I found the nurses very useful to speak when I had questions - best to take a notebook and if you can someone to go with you - my brain felt like Swiss cheese.
Bob and Suzie, thank you for the messages, finally a smile on my face, with tears. I wish you both well and I am feeling a bit more positive after reading your messages. Thank you.
I was in the same position as you in October. Same diagnosis and same worries about the future. The last 11 months have been very tough, I’m not going to lie. But here I am still enjoying life and one day you will be where I am now. You will be able to access lots of advice and encouragement on here. Good luck for whatever journey lies ahead. CB
was diagnosed in January, then after a CT scan found it was also on my liver so no operation available. As previously said you will know more once all the tests are done, mine where pretty quick so didn’t have to wait long before I started chemo. 6 rounds of E-Carbo, last 8 months haven’t been easy . But still here and recovering from chemo fatigue now.
Understand your predicament as diagnosed with identical prob back in April. Currently on a clinical trial having joint chemo and immunotherapy fortnightly. A few very minor side effects and overall feeling absolutely fine. Don’t know how long it will last as diagnosed S4 inoperable. So taking each day as it comes and resolved to enjoy life. I know I’m lucky as just celebrated my 77th birthday - feel sad for those much younger. Can’t give you much advice as everyone’s journey is unique but, when you have a clearer idea of what may be in store (not knowing is understandably frightening) try and make the most of the positive. You’ll be surprised at just how many positives you’ll discover.
