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RickK avatar

Should i get an esophagectomy?

Esophageal Cancer | Last Active: Jul 7, 2025 | Replies (37)

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Profile picture for Lynn @cometsmom

Hi Rick, I was so struck by your post. I'm a caregiver for my husband with EC. I'm sorry you are in this position, with such a serious diagnosis and no support. My husband wasn't eligible for surgery so unfortunately I can't speak to that, but many here have had the surgery and are much better equipped to share that experience with you. I know they will chime in soon.

Where are you receiving your care? Most cancer centers have nurse navigators or patient navigators. They are invaluable and can assist with things like connecting you with many resources. Our NN was awesome and extremely supportive in every way. She connected us with social work, nutrition, financial assistance, palliative care, aftercare, etc. She was the go-to person, with the knowledge and resources we needed.

Do you have a navigator? Keeping them in the loop about the details of your social situation is really important, as they can and will help. If so, I highly encourage you to utilize them. If not, please inquire about it.

I understand your reservations about going forward with the surgery, especially with no support. Get all the info about services like home health aids, visiting nurses, other services your cancer center may offer. Talk to others here, and on smartpatients.com, another excellent group of patients and caregivers with so many different experiences, willing to share and offer support in whatever way possible. There are so many success stories, including ours! Knowledge is power...find out as much as you can about your options and stay connected through forums like this.

I'm sure others who have gone through the surgery will be on to offer their experiences with you. Glad you reached out. Peace

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Replies to "Hi Rick, I was so struck by your post. I'm a caregiver for my husband with..."

Thank you.
I say i dont have support but meant face to face. I do have support in your selves, my group and others.
:). RK

Hi again, I apologize for the briefness of my initial reply.
The bulk of my treatment has been at Rochester Mayo. My surgery is scheduled with Shanda Blackmon at St Luke's / Baylor in Houston Texas.
The Mayo has put me in contact with a couple groups as well as some counseling which is nice. But there is no information for any aftercare, I am not sure what the Navigator is that you refer to?
I do have the support of yourself, others and my group which is a God send. I feel selfish and shouldn't whine because we are all going through a boat load of reality and crap to deal with.
Yes you are correct that not all the stories are bleak and i have had the privilege of receiving those replies. There is hope and my heart goes out to everyone dealing with there own journeys.
My greatest prayers and wishes for all!
RickK