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Squamous cell EC recurrence: Got questions about chemoradiation

Esophageal Cancer | Last Active: May 18 8:59am | Replies (32)
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@chip30

Are you anywhere near a proton therapy facility? The reason I ask is because I was lucky enough to be just a few miles from one in Knoxville, Tn. It was a wonderful treatment center with "wonderful" people. After doing MUCH research on my own(and not having been told about
this facility by the place that wanted to do PHOTON radiation) I found out that proton hits
the area of the tumor, does its job and stops there! From everything I learned and found out the other causes worse side effects and then exits the body which "could cause" damage to other healthy organs. If you have the option of proton treatment you should certainly look into it.
I wish you and your husband the very best and hope whatever treatment he has eradicates this "god awful" disease. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

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Replies to "Are you anywhere near a proton therapy facility? The reason I ask is because I was..."
Lynn | @cometsmom | Apr 21 3:39pm

Thank you for the info. I looked into it and the closest facility is Mass General in Boston, only 1-1/2 hours from us. The downside is, I don't have enough PTO to cover the time away. I work for our local hospital and carry the health insurance. Even though I could use FMLA for the time off, once my PTO runs out, I wouldn't be getting a paycheck...ughhh tough pill to swallow. My employer would continue the health insurance even though I'd not be getting paid, but I would have to reimburse them upon my return.

Thanks for your reply. Prayers and best wishes to you for good health!

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Lynn | @cometsmom | Apr 21 3:51pm

Thanks for your message. Another gentleman also suggested proton therapy and I did look into it. The closest is at Mass General in Boston which is only 1-1/2 hours away, but while I'd get FMLA , I won't have enough PTO to cover the time away from work. I could take it unpaid, but then no money comes in...health insurance would be continued of course, but I believe I would have to reimburse my employer for my portion. Add in all the other expenses of being away for almost six weeks, it's just not doable. We are going to put our faith in the hands of our doctor and hope for the best!

I appreciate the thoughts and prayers. I hope you are doing well!

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