And so the journey begins

Hello everyone.  I am a new member of the forum.  59 years of age with an older sister who has just been diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer.  Her chemotherapy port was just installed and her first treatment is scheduled in about a week.  I am already seeing her energy level decline a great deal and am worried she is fading even before treatment.  I don't even know what questions to ask, but wanted to at least connect here.  I am open for any suggestions or comments for caregivers.  Thank you!!

  • Hey Hun, 

    I just wanted to say Hello! And to comment to your post. 

    Im so sorry to hear about your sisters diagnosis. But you sound like an amazing sister who's in the loop with all of her treatment, and so to have you with her through this is gonna be the biggest help, and love, she could ever want! My mum is currently having chemo for an aggressive form of breast cancer, and being as my Mum is my best friend, I'm her biggest care giver, so your caregiver friend is right here! :)

    Honestly, mums coming up to her 5th round of chemo, and the best thing so far, is when she has her little breakdowns, crying and saying she can't do it, is me reassuring her, while giving her a big cuddle, and reminding her how far she's come since she first got her diagnosis. She will still be upset, but then she keeps thinking back to that point, and comparing it to now, and it helps her a whole bunch. So even if your sister gets upset now, before she starts chemo, remind her how far she's come from her diagnosis, how strong she's been, how she had her port in (which I think takes a whole lot of bravery, those things are scary!) And how she's now ready for chemo, whereas she wasn't when she was diagnosed. 

    Seeing them become more tired etc is hard, I think I always thought Mum was invincible, and I have always been in awe of her, she's always been my hero and I've always been so proud, but seeing her go through chemo and quite frankly kicking its butt, I am a whole new level of proud! Which I'm sure you'll feel for your sister. 

    But honestly, you can message me any time, to chat about anything. Its tough being there for someone all of the time and being brave for them. So I'm here for you! You'll find lots of love, advice and friends on here too. 

    Lots of love and light to you and your sister, 

    Alex xxxx