Hello, I’m writing from Tasmania, having just joined this site. I was diagnosed with oesophageal (English spelling) cancer Feb 2024 - a worrying time. The treating team started chemo / radiotherapy (5 and 25 sessions respectively) within 3 weeks of diagnosis. We were warned about lots of potential side effects, particularly with radiotherapy where S/E’s are cumulative. I did very fell till around session 21 when severe fatigue set in. By the last session it was literally almost impossible to get off the couch. Some people report feeling like they’ve swallowed razor blades but swallowing was not a problem for me - we all react differently. The fatigue improved over the next month.
I had surgery several weeks later. I was warned it was a very invasive procedure and that is certainly the case. Being 68 yoa means it hits harder and requires more recovery time than when you’re younger. The whole time was not much fun, but nothing that was not tolerable. The stats I was given suggest that having the surgery yields a four fold increase for survival at the 5 year mark. I’m currently 14 months post surgery and feeling life is pretty much back to normal, albeit a new normal.
My best wishes to all dealing with this illness. Be aware that with a bit of luck, good results are possible. Being fit and physically active certainly assist recovery and the significant psychological challenges you face. Best wishes. Geoff