My husband Joe...age 57...was diagnosed with esophageal cancer yesterday. The doctor thinks it's Adenocarcinoma but won't be sure until the biopsy results come back. What we do know is that Joe will need radiation, chemo and surgery. I've read the stats on this type of cancer and all say "poor prognosis". My husband is holding up much better then I am. I can't stop crying no matter how hard I try to hold it together for Joe's sake. He will have a CT scan on Monday to see if there are any signs of metastasis. Please post your story here if you have had adenocarcinoma or have been the caretaker of a loved one that has gone through this. My husband and I desparately need the prayers and support of anyone that has been through this cancer journey and understands the shock of a cancer diagnosis ********UPDATE******** Joe had his CT scan on Monday Oct 18, 2010. Results were shocking not only to us but to our gastroenterologist who had done the endoscopy. Joe's cancer has spread to his liver(several spots showed up there) and lymph nodes. It is adenocarcinoma stage 4. His cancer is no longer considered curable but we were told it is controllable. Joe starts his first round of chemo on Friday Oct 29th. The chemo will consist of the meds Omdansetron, Irinotecan, Cisplatin and Dextrose. I want to thank each and every one of my Cancer Compass friends for sharing their stories of help, hope and comfort with us. There are so many survivor messages that it really does uplift us from the fear of the unknown that lies a head of us in Joes cancer journey. I feel such a bond with all of you. I am keeping all you close to my heart and in my prayers...whether you are the patient or the caretaker. Together we can get through this. Love, Prayers and Hugs; Jackie and Joe
*******UPDATE********July 1, 2011****** Things are not going good. The liver tumors are numerous, growing rapidly and are unrelenting. They are taking over his whole liver to the point that now he is experiencing a lot of pain because the tumors are compressing his stomach and the lower lobe of his right lung. The oncologist said that conventional chemo isn't working. The Dr looked for trials in 3 major cancer hospitals in New England and New York. Joe does not qualify for any. Joe just started on a chemo pill called Nexavar. Its not a cure but may shrink the tumors and give Joe a few more months here on earth. If the Nexavar doesn't work they think it will only be a matter of 4-8 weeks before the cancer wins. It breaks my heart to see my husband life draining out of him. Please keep Joe in your prayers. Right now we need Gods intervention and a miracle.
Prayers and Hope,
Jackie and Joe
***************UPDATE***************July 28, 2011************
My husband Joe passed away last Thursday, July 21, 2011 @ 5:15 AM. Although he passed away peacefully and at home with his loved ones he did suffer in the days before his death. Our hearts are shattered. I still can't believe he's gone. Thank you for all your support, prayers and uplifting messages of hope. In the 9 months since Joe's diagnosis I could not have made it through this without your love and support. This has been a roller coaster ride and a nightmare all rolled into one. We need to find a cure for cancer NOW!!! I will continue to pray for all of you fighting this battle.
Love and Prayers for a cure,
^Joe^ and Jackie