Looking for others' experiences with Esophageal Cancer treatments

Hi John William (@jwkelly72), I'm just catching up with the discussions in the Esophageal Cancer support group. Welcome.

Reading your profile, you are obviously no stranger to the world of hospitals and medical procedures. Your cancer treatment has included chemo and immunotherapy. But for you surgery is not an option and you've decided against further chemo. I can imagine that you weighed your personal pros and cons before deciding on your treatment options.

I understand your use of the term "poison" to describe chemo. It can be a tough treatment, not always, but often. My dad even said "I feel like I'm dying from the treatment that is meant to save me."

It's also important to note that many many members here on Mayo Clinic Connect are here because of treatment they received, including challenging treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, CAR-T cell therapy, surgery, reconstruction and more. For many, chemo is not a poison but a literally a life saver.

When cancer and its treatments are challenging, members are here to support, encourage, and share coping strategies.

@zzonner, I see you now have radiation and chemo behind you and are preparing for surgery next week. How are you feeling? Don't forget your phone charger to stay in touch. 🙂

@mrgvw @lori57216 @sjw6358 @pellaw @survivorsuz @puprluvr what would be your top tips for Zonner as he prepares for surgery?

I am feeling fabulous!! I have put 5 pounds back on, and in the process of doing a fine restaurant tour of Phoenix with my wife to get in all the fine dining we can squeeze in before surgery. I don't think I've eaten so much steak and lobster in my life. Even some good chardonnay. I am hoping for the best and preparing for the not so best. Every day is a blessing. Thanks for everyone's support.

@mrgvw, sometimes it can be confusing who is responding to whom. This blog post helps to explain.

- Replies and @mentions: How do I know who is replying to whom? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/newsfeed-post/replies-and-mentions-how-do-i-know-who-is-replying-to-whom/

I also noticed that you generously offered your personal phone number to connect with members. Connect is a public forum. We recommend sharing personal contact information using the secure private message function. I might also add that by sharing here in the forum, you are connecting with several people and many can benefit from your experiences and group support. I've really appreciated everything you've openly shared in the Esophageal Cancer support group, giving hope and practical strategies. Thank you.

Zzonner,
I am so very impressed with your uplifting attitude!!!! So important to keep positive.
I had esophagectomy surgery April, 2020 @ Mayo / Rochester. I was suppose to be in the hospital for 1 week but I contracted an infection in one of my drainage tubes and had to stay an additional week. My husband was so relieved. HaHa. Poor guy was worried about being an at home nurse.
I had the invasive surgery (don't remember now the technical term). They removed my esophagus and stretched my stomach up and attached to the remaining esophagus. Was a huge success!!! I had a J tube (feeding tube) in my intestine. No food or drink at all via mouth. Meds were crushed & dissolved in water then inserted into tube. Piece of cake really once you get the hang of it.
That really was the only hard thing about the whole experience was nothing in the mouth as my mouth and throat got so dry. You will be fine as it sounds like you are already the epitome of health & physical strength and have an excellent support system!!!! Just remember this is a big surgery and you NEED to give yourself time to heal and rest. Do not push it. Your body will tell you what you need to know if you pay attention. And don't be afraid to utilize them pain meds, they gave them to you for a reason. If your in pain, take them.
Good luck & prayers going out to you,
Lori

When I met with my surgeon after chemo and radiation and 5 or so weeks b4 surgery, he told me “I want you walking up to 3 miles a day between now and surgery day. I and my dog did just that!
If you smoke-quit!! If you use alcohol-quit! Eat healthy-lots of fruits, vegetables, light on the red meat, more fish and chicken and/or include more plant based foods in your diet. Stay strong and positive, know you had the best treatment at Mayo Clinic and will have the best surgeon for your cancer. Wishing you the best!
Barbara

When you wake up from surgery... don't bother looking for that bus that ran you over... none of us ever find it!

Just cell phone and charger... and some toiletries if you so desire. Otherwise... you'll be wearing that gown with your ass hanging out for a full week. Enjoy! The real post-op journey won't even start for a month or two. But if you're still working... and use a laptop a bunch... easy to work after a few days.

tough for me to add anything positive as i am going through a very difficult time. my first surgery was on February 20. on March 1 i went home only to go back that night because of breathing issues. turns out my esophagus leaked into my lung. on March 4 i had another surgery when they detached my esophagus and stomach. i was in the hospital for 1 month , then rehab for 1 month. now home for the last 3 months with a j tube and a fistula drain, i am preparing for my 3rd surgery to put stomach and esophagus back together on August 25...acceptance, patience, and tolerance have been helpful for me

Sounds like you've had a tough road. Thanks for your honesty and I will be keeping you in my thoughts as we all battle this monster together.

Thanks for the honesty. Fortunately I am retired and we like 4 miles from the hospital so it won't be so hard on my wife. I am up for the challenge as this monster frankly has me pissed off.