Waiting

Don't quite know how to answer your feeling overwhelmed bit but would suggest you try and think about it in a positive way as it is not always as bad as it sounds.

As for the PEG that is not a big deal in most cases apart from the daily maintenance (cleaning and turning) not painful in my case and the same with most of us. Also the tracheostomy in my case wasn't a problem but dose take a while to heal after removal but only because they like it to repair from the inside out, I am a winp so I got the nurse at my GP surgery to change the dressing.

If you have any more questions then ask and I or others will try to answer but it is difficult as even people with the same cancer sight can have totally different after effects, it might be easier to just go with the flow as the worry about what might happen will only make it worse. I would think you are in the right place as well.

Hello...it’s totally natural to feel overwhelmed...it is a big deal...BUT it’s totally doable!!...one day at a time...if you do need a PEG it’s no where near as bad as it sounds...having it fitted was easy..5 mins no pain at all...was sore for a few days but nothing paracetamol didn’t sort out...and now...3 weeks on it’s no trouble at all... as for the treatment...I only started yesterday but the bits I was terrified about..mask etc turned out to be not so bad after all...it’s the unknown that’s scary.. I think a positive attitude helps...me and my boyfriend laugh about this as much as we can...it gets me through for sure...good luck...and let’s kick it’s a***!!..x

Hello Abrn

I think it's natural to feel overwhelmed when we are first diagnosed.  I know I was.  I found the best way to deal with it was to just take it one step at a time and try not to think too far ahead.  Treatment is tailored to the individual so we can never be sure exactly what will be recommended for us and what side effects we will experience.  I remember at the beginning that I spent a lot of time worrying about things which ended up never happening.  So I decided to deal with the side effects if and when they happened. 

I also tried to limit the amount of time I spent each day thinking about my cancer.  I would write down everything that was troubling me so that I could clear my head, and get queries answered at some future point.  Once my thoughts were all written down then I found I could get a few hours peace from them.  Eventually my mind quietened down sufficiently so that the overwhelming feeling could begin to subside. 

Not everyone needs a PEG tube.  I had to have one but it was very helpful to me so it was a positive thing. 

Good luck with your meeting next week, let us all know how you get on.  xx

Hello Abrn , I agree with the advice others have given , I think the more you think the worse it can be sometimes as others have said take things one day at a time and deal with any problems as the come . I had my peg fitted on the day of my operation so it was all in one and have found it to be a godsend ,it takes the worry and pain out of swallowing if it becomes difficult plus I think it looks better than an NG tube . Having a tracheostomy was ok although it is a bit uncomfortable to begin with but I never found it painful although it feels great when its removed as it a sign that recovery is well on its way . Im sure your consultant will do his/her best to reassure you next week and will only be to pleased to answer any questions , you will be in good hands so don't worry about being out of control as the team will look after you , all you have to do is concentrate on your recovery . Wishing you all the best for next weeks meeting , take care .

                                                                                 Chris .

Hi there i jst noticed your post and brought back those feelings of apprehension which we have all experienced on here I am sure so it's perfectly normal. 

I found that once my treatment plan was in place and treatment prep starts you are almost on a hamster wheel until your treatment finishes so amuch as it seems ages away for it all it will all be complete before you know it. It's very rough physically and emotionally but keep strong and positive as I firmly believe that helps you loads in your recovery. And remember there are no silly questions.. So ask away on here or with your team and you will be absolutely great. 

Best wishes

Marie