Hi there and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear your dad has been told he has oesophageal cancer. I appreciate what a shock this news must be and trying to navigate what will happen next can be difficult.

I hope both you and your dad have the support of friends and family around you to help you through this time.

It is important to take things one step at a time for now and try not to let the mind run away with itself.

Avoid googling oesophageal cancer until you have more information from the team involved in your dads care. They will now be wanting to find out the type, stage ( size and extent) of the cancer by gathering the biopsy results alongside other body scans. Then they are likely to discuss your dad in a MDT Multi Disciplinary Team setting where all the specialists discuss each patient. From there they can plan the best treatment to give the best possible outcome for your dad.

Once the team has new information they will discuss it with your dad, alongside other members of the family. They can answer any question your dad or you may have to help everyone understand what this means.

Times like this are never easy and unfortunately it can take a number of weeks to get results back, which can be unsettling so try and keep yourself and your mind busy whilst you wait.

If your dad is having issues with eating, which isn't unusual in a case like this then ensure he is eating soft foods alongside plenty of water to help pass food down. There is information on the website about eating problems, so do take a look. If it is too difficult get advice from the hospital team or ask if your dad can speak to a dietician or speech and language therapist.

I hope you both know more soon. Please do get back if needed and you are very welcome to call the nurse helpline if you prefer to talk over the phone. Our number is 0808 800 4040, we're here weekdays 9-5.

Best wishes

Naomi