Esophageal Cancer Support Group
Esophageal cancer is malignancy of the esophagus. There are various subtypes. Esophageal tumors usually lead to dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), pain and other symptoms, and is diagnosed with biopsy. Small and localized tumors are treated with surgery, and advanced tumors are treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or combinations.
We should find out Tuesday what the plan is for my dads chemo. He has completed all of his testing needed to determine how aggressive the doctor can be with the chemo.
I know my dad is egger to start. I am scared for him. I used to taking on any challenge that they have a muscling myself through it. But this isn't something I can do that with. We all have to just have faith. And my dad is already excepted that he has maybe a year. He is giving a lot of things away that he's kept for when he passes. My mother is afraid that he's already given up. I'm hoping that isn't the case.
I love him so very much and life would not be the same without him....
I know my dad is egger to start. I am scared for him. I used to taking on any challenge that they have a muscling myself through it. But this isn't something I can do that with. We all have to just have faith. And my dad is already excepted that he has maybe a year. He is giving a lot of things away that he's kept for when he passes. My mother is afraid that he's already given up. I'm hoping that isn't the case.
I love him so very much and life would not be the same without him....
He first found out he had a tumor April 1, 2013. We're almost to the one year anniversary. He's had a heck of a year but we have hope now. He's doing realtively well, except for kidney stones!
One thing I've learned coming onto this site and another site is that everyone's experience is different. But there's definitely hope no matter what stage you're diagnosed with.
Good luck!
Linda
I also could not wait to start chemo - people thought I was strange for saying I was keen to start chemo. I have a photo my son took of me at my first chemo session giving a double thumbs up! It felt like I could do something about the cancer, not just sit back and let it take over - so good for your Dad in this regard.
I know it's difficult for carers/loved ones, I understand you feel helpless - we the cancer patients at least can do something to fight it. What I found so beneficial and helpful from my support people (my partner, my mother, my children particularly) was their support, steadiness, their willingness to listen to how I was feeling, and the way they allowed me to just 'lose it' at times. There is nothing in particular they need to do or say, I just always know they are there when I need them.
I think your Dad in accepting he has maybe one year, is realistic and I wouldn't assume he has given up hope, especially as he is eager to start chemo - I see that as a very positive sign. I was the same. I knew that one year was probably what I would have - I accepted that as a probable outcome, however never gave up hope that I would have longer than that year. I am now at 14 months and stronger than ever. Encourage your Dad to set goals, short and longer term. I wanted an overseas trip with my kids (which we did in July 2013). I want to see my daughter finish high school (end of 2014), then I want to see my son turn 21 (March 2015).
What I have also found beneficial is seeing a psychologist who specializes in cancer patients; and a book, "From this moment on" by Arlene Cotter - wish I'd found this when first diagnosed.
All the best to you and your Dad.
Kathy
-Linda