When did you have your Surgery?

Just thought that I would get an idea as to where everyone is. My surgery was November 2008, My biggest problem is breathing issues, but I had lung problems before the EC, Still get sick on rare ocasions, dumping, throwing up etc, but really doing much better, I will never be the same, but glad to have made it thus far, Seems everyone waites for the big 5 year mark, Hope I make it, SO FAR SO GOOD, eat what I Want just NO MILK. How about you? When was your surgery and are you still having any problems? Just courious,

Take care my friends..................georgi

Hi Georgie,

I had my surgery in November 2007.  It's hard to believe that it's been that long ago.  I am so lucky that I really don't have any major problems from the surgery---no dumping, no trouble swallowing,etc.  I pretty much eat what I want, but I have learned not to overeat or I will feel uncomfortable.  Also, my acid reflux is gone since I read the tip about eating an apple at night.  A million thanks goes out to whoever posted that here in this forum.  I saw both my surgeon and radiation oncologist this week and they were both impressed with my progress.  I am so thakful to God and my wonderful team of doctors that I am still here because when I was diagnosed in Aug 2007 as Stage 3, I was certain I wouldn't make it until Christmas of that year, but here I am. 

Donna

i georgi - my op was in 7/2009. i am back to normal and only taking 2 prilosec a day for acid reflux. i can eat, drink, work and exercise pretty much like in pre cancer days.  has not gain any weight ( still down 22 lbs from pre cancer ) but that is not too bad considering i am now running/jogging 3 miles a day.

all the best, andy

Hello Georgi,

Had my MIE in July 2010.  Am doing pretty well.  Can eat just about anything, just not as much as I use to.  I went from 235 Jan 10 to about 180 after surgery.  Am now up to 195 and holding steady.  I had two CT scans since then and both were clear.  (I just tell everyone I got another 4 month warranty)  Next checkup in August, also a scan and may take out my port.

Of course, every pain or discomfort is questioned, don't know if I will ever stop looking over my shoulder.  But keep chugging along.

Everyone here are in my thoughts and prayers.

Hi Georgi,

Joe had his surgery on March 17, 2008.  Today he got the results of a CT scan from last week and everything is fine.  He also had an annual endoscopy a month ago and that too was fine.

Two of the biggest problems for Joe have been his rib and upper back pain and restless sleep.  He continues to do a lot of physical work and has to rely on lidocaine patches to help with the rib and back pain.  These patches are really expensive and not covered by our insurance.  Another problem he has is getting a good nights sleep.  He's tried raising the bed and getting a wedge pillow but nothing helps much .  He now sleeps in a recliner for 1/2 of the night and then goes into bed -- still he never gets a restful sleep.  Occasionally, he also has problems with acid reflux, especially in the mornings.

The good news is that he's finally starting to put on weight and now is up to 156 lbs!  He hasn't been that heavy in over 3 years.

Maria