Should i get an esophagectomy?

One more thing to add you do have control of some of this. Your ability to control your attitude positive and your emotions grateful and also some exercise like walking. I was surprised how much that helps 1/2 hour a day was great or more. Best wishes !! Scott

I can’t imagine having to make all these decisions during treatment without a strong support system in place. I’m praying for strength and peace for you during this difficult time. I’ve added you to my prayer list.

My husband was diagnosed on May 30, and we’re still in the testing phase as the doctors work to create a plan to defeat his cancer. We’ve been experiencing a wave of emotions—this season of unknowns can be really scary. Just know you’re not alone.

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

This makes me feel a little better. My husband just had his first scan post 4 rounds of Flot and it’s showing a great deal of shrinkage of the mass and no metastasis. We have an appointment with the surgeon next Monday and are nervous now. I know this is a major surgery and it’s scary, but it is what it is at this point. I’m just hoping and praying the next step goes well!

Wonderful! I am very happy for your husband and yourself, every bit of good news is welcome!
FYI. The Mayo initially teamed me up with a surgeon that was not Minimally invasive / robotic certified. Please verify this with your surgeon.
I opted for the very best and searched out Dr. Blackmon who is world renown.
My greatest prayers and wishes!
RickK

Wonderful! I am very happy for your husband and yourself, every bit of good news is welcome!
FYI. The Mayo initially teamed me up with a surgeon that was not Minimally invasive / robotic certified. Please verify this with your surgeon.
I opted for the very best and searched out Dr. Blackmon who is world renown.
My greatest prayers and wishes!
RickK