Just got home after having my esophagus removed: Recovery tips?

Posted by johnstawicki @johnstawicki, Sep 13, 2022

Esophagus cancer
I just came home from hospital , after having my esophagus removed anyone else ?

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Hi John. Keep your positive thoughts. Sounds like being as active as you can will end up being to your advantage. You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I am new to the group and am very thankful for all the information I have obtained. Take good care.

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@bookelly

Hi John. Keep your positive thoughts. Sounds like being as active as you can will end up being to your advantage. You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I am new to the group and am very thankful for all the information I have obtained. Take good care.

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You do the same as well … more than conquerors …

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Hi John-I had my esophagectomy April of 2019. I had a feeding tube for a month, which was a challenge several times to unplug, but thankfully I had a wonderful caregiver to help. After a week or two, I was able to run my feeding tube during sleeping hours and be free of it during the day. Follow the dietary instructions you were given, eat slowly and chew your food well. As you progress to solid food, you may have issues eating certain foods like dairy. For me, I broke our with a skin rash after eating mushrooms, which I can eat now-go figure. Sleep on a wedge or purchase an adjustable bed so your upper body is slightly elevated. Stay positive, take it a day at a time, and stay as active as you are able. I wish you well as you navigate your new anatomy.

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Sound advice , I am in the process of doing all of that , thank you

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@lilyjoy

Hi all, my surgery is tomorrow morning . . . any thoughts on how I should spend my day today? Lily

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Hi @lilyjoy, just a quick note to let you know I'm thinking about you as you recover from surgery. I look forward to an update when you're feeling able. Rest well.

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your in my prayers i will be walking down that road soon Rik

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Surgery was Sep 2 2022 , released from St Marys Sep 8 2022 . So far. Some aches and pains as expected, I have been up walking around the house and up and down the block , hanging out with my wife and dog , we play cards and are working on a puzzle. Staying busy. Has helped me , Im never been one for sitting around on not doing much .only 10 more days before I can start taking things by mouth , which I’m looking forward too for me that has been the hardest by far . Keep Positive and keep busy …

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@johnstawicki

Surgery was Sep 2 2022 , released from St Marys Sep 8 2022 . So far. Some aches and pains as expected, I have been up walking around the house and up and down the block , hanging out with my wife and dog , we play cards and are working on a puzzle. Staying busy. Has helped me , Im never been one for sitting around on not doing much .only 10 more days before I can start taking things by mouth , which I’m looking forward too for me that has been the hardest by far . Keep Positive and keep busy …

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John, it sounds like your recovery is going really well. Congrats.

I moved your latest post to the discussion where you asked about recovery tips because I think that fellow members like @rikardlykling @puprluvr @lilyjoy @lori57216 @socalkelly @bookelly will be very interested in your progess.

As you count down the days until you can start taking things by mouth again, you might find these related discussions helpful:
- Esophageal cancer....transitioning to food https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/esophageal-cancer-transitioning-to-food/
- Soft Food Suggestions https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/soft-food-suggestions/

Sounds like being someone who doesn't like sitting around motivates your recovery. What other tips might you offer to @lilyjoy who had surgery only recently?

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@johnstawicki

Surgery was Sep 2 2022 , released from St Marys Sep 8 2022 . So far. Some aches and pains as expected, I have been up walking around the house and up and down the block , hanging out with my wife and dog , we play cards and are working on a puzzle. Staying busy. Has helped me , Im never been one for sitting around on not doing much .only 10 more days before I can start taking things by mouth , which I’m looking forward too for me that has been the hardest by far . Keep Positive and keep busy …

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Way to go John-impressive the way you're moving, staying busy and connected after your major surgery. I totally agree with your level of activity-so good for your physical and mental health. You got this!

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@puprluvr

Way to go John-impressive the way you're moving, staying busy and connected after your major surgery. I totally agree with your level of activity-so good for your physical and mental health. You got this!

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I will be starting 5 weeks of chemo and radiation soon any tips would appreciate.Blessings be upon all cancer patients.Rik in Florida

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