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2nd Line Treatment for Terminal Cancer (esophageal)

Rem
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My brother has terminal esophageal cancer (stage 4). Diagnosed February 2017, he underwent a course of ECX Chemotherapy that was completed by September. From November he started to show the same symptoms again. March 2018, he is now experiencing severe difficulty swallowing. He is to be fitted with a stent and then start second line chemotherapy treatment with Docetaxel. Given where we are now, what is the probable life expectancy. I know that everyone reacts differently, but I love him very much and need to have some idea of how long we have together so that I can best help him in the time he has left

  • Hello Rem,

    I'm sorry to hear that your brother's prognosis is rather poor, what an incredibly difficult situation this must be for you.

    It is only understandable that you'd want to know how long he has left so that you can help him as much as you can. Have you tried getting in touch with his medical team? If you can, I think this is the best thing you can do as they're familiar with your brother's case and might be able to give you an estimative. 

    Hopefully, other members who have been in a similar situation will pop here soon to share their stories and give advice.

    If you want to give our cancer nurses a call and ask them some questions, they are available on this number 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday, between 9 a.m - 5 p.m.

    Stay strong, Rem.

    Best wishes to you and your brother,

    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator

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