On 1/14/2008
jbmx4life wrote:
I happened to stumble upon this site the other night while searching on the internet. I have read alot about what other patients, caregivers, and family members have gone through.
I thought that I would introduce myself. My name is Jeremy and I am a 27y/o (well 28 next month) male. I have a fiance (caretaker) and 3 children (9y/o, 5y/o, 7months). I was diagnosed with EC in Aug 07 after I was having problems swallowing foods. I went through 28 radiation treatments and 3 cycles of chemotherapy pre-op. I had my surgery Nov 23 at St. Mary's Hospital with a surgeon from Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Post-op pathology showed that there were still some live microscopic cancer cells present. My father asked the surgeon right away if more chemotherapy was needed and he responded "No" but I have since seen my oncologist at home and a follow-up oncology appointment at Mayo. I have been told that I should have 3 more cycles of chemotherapy. Not the best news that I wanted to here for my follow-up/check-up, but I guess if it is in the best interest for me I better do it. I am still in some pain from the surgery and sleeping back in bed is a nightly challenge. I had an Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy and my right side is numb/sore most of the time. I am hoping that this goes away over time and I am thinking about asking to go to physical therapy to help it.
I am looking forward to making friends and hearing more about the outcomes of others. I know that there is the good and the bad. I am so sorry for the people that have gone through the bad part of all of this.
Regards,
Jeremy
Dear Jeremy,
I first want to say to keep up the fight and my thoughts are with you and your family.
I am just starting this battle with my father who is 63yr. The surgery will be Friday, the same as yours. My father is very lucky that his was found at Stage I. The surgery is just as tough though.
Obviously I don't have any advice, I came upon this site by accident and have gone away with sort of feeling like our family wasn't alone. I hope that for you and your family. Not being the patient but a family member, I would tell your wife that she might find some comfort in reading some of these messages as well. As tough as all this is on the patient, it is also tough for the family. I think we all feel so helpless but can gain strength from the kind words of encouragement from those who have walked or are walking in our shoes.
I wish you all the best!
As I tell my Dad....stay strong!!
Laura