Hi guys, my names Mike. I noticed in December 24 I was having trouble swallowing. Anyhow after the first test it was confirmed in Dec that year it was oesophageal cancer, got prodded and poked and scanned for 3 months.

Started my 1st of 4 FLOT chemo treatments at hospital in March. Found them very invasive but I was physically fit and mentally strong (very important). Big weight loss through constant diarrhoea, feeling cold hands and feet, worst part was not being able to able to control my reasoning, I guess it’s my nature I hate being fussed over.

Next step surgery, full oesophagectomy, at hospital, fabulous team. All went well had not joking 42 lymph nodes removed as well. Surgery was fine, but had many accidents with the trots it was incessant. Got pneumonia in intensive care it’s not uncommon, so was in hospital 12 nights.   By this time I had gone from 14 stone to 11.5. Then the next stage of flot chemo 4 visits to clean up any residual cancerous bits. That was the worst part of my journey I managed 2 but went down to 10 stone, I didn’t recognise myself. I decided no more, prof at the hospital agreed saying the treatment can be more dangerous, he also said if cancer returns it’s not because you stopped chemo. That was in September.

Next problem, don’t get too downhearted if weight didn’t improve for a while healing process burns a lot of calories.

Any how, cancer free, rang the bell at the hospital good luck to everyone, and stay positive.. ps I was stage 3.

Regards, Mike.