In this together

The posts have been a help. My husband was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in November after months trying to get the doctor to take his symptoms seriously.

Sadly there was nothing they could do. I have tried all the alternative therapies that seemed suitable and he has been very well until now. Two days ago he failed to eat his lunch and today has eaten only a spoonful of the 3 meals I prepared. He does not seem to have any swallowing problems. Has a little pain very low in abdomen. The problem is he 'doesn't fancy eating'. The doctors and nurse seem not to be able to suggest anything to help with this. I am preparing fresh veg. and fruit juices and smoothies with fruit. Along with these was a normal diet which included everything vegetarian that he used to enjoy.

I do think the juicing and smoothies are a good idea to get extra nutrition down - you can add liquid vitamins and minerals to boost the immune system. Leslie never smoked but did drink wine daily. I persuaded him to cut this down. Just now he doesn't even fancy that.

I do wish all of you luck. I wish the medical profession appreciated the strain that the carer is under as well as the patient. Its a living nightmare and not one has ever asked me how I am coping. I think we must all pray and hope for each other.

  • Hi gaelle just wanted to welcome you to the forum.  I too have a terminal prognosis, although of a different cancer and understand the physical, financial and emotional difficulties that many of us are going through.  It is very rare to be asked how we are coping, particularly to the carer. How are you doing my love?  You can private message me if you want to talk anytime 'off the forum' if it will help you x

  • I would like to wish you luck. Its so hard, challenging, caring for someone you love dearly, wanting to make things better, take away their discomfort and pain...and feel powerless, exhausted and often at a loss but keep it all together for them, make things "work" as best we can on a day to day basis, not really knowimg what turns the journey will take.

    My husbands diagnosis came as such a shock, out of nowhere it seems, I am grateful that I managed to care for him as best as I could under the circumstances. I know how hard it must be for you and my heart goes out to you. I followed my instinct. Things went so fast there was little time to read, google, seek advice about his condition. I wish you strength and I hope you,have some support to help you through. Maybe coming here and posting will help you a little bit. Take care

  • Hi juicing/smoothies are an excellent way of giving him the nutrients he needs.There are recepies on line for antioxidants and immunity drinks. I would talk to the dietitian about medication to increase his appetite ..should also be able to get free supplement drinks via your gp packed with calories (fortisips)

    I hope you are getting support from community services ie hospice at home and District nurses!! Hospice  at home offer abit of respite a few hours a week so you can go out You are also entitled to a number of night sits as well if and when required x