Hello there

My husband has oesophageal cancer. He eats slowly and it is rather noisy as food gets past his tumour and air comes up. We can't go out to eat a meal as he would find it embarrassing but we do go for a coffee and a snack or cake. He says there is no taste in anything as a result of chemo and no longer enjoys meals. We both really miss going out with friends to eat. I am not sure what your husband can eat but I expect it is  a chore rather than the pleasure it used to be.

On good days we can go to friends for coffee and a chat which does brighten up the day. 

We have planned a holiday in a cottage with our kids and grandkids for the May half term as we will be able to make our own meals but explore the area. This is a fairly ambitious as my husband's prognosis is around a year.

 Are you able to plan hikes or day trips and take your food with you or garden projects to see an achievement? It all depends on how well you are I suppose. 

It it is hard to make plans without support but perhaps you could start with small outings. Good luck.

Ronnie

Hi

I am 15 years on from tongue cancer diagnosis and, like your husband, my diet is limited. (though in truth I was always a fussy eater anyway!). I miss eating out but have found ways of working around it. 

Try to find ways of sociailising that don't centre around food. I have an early lunch at home then meet up with friends for matinees at the theatre or cinema - seats are often cheaper in afternoons too. I go to a pub quiz once a month and no-one seems to bother if I don't have the sandwiches at the interval. In summer I like to go to parks or on day trips and take a picnic lunch. My friends still ask me along when they are celebrating a birthday. If they go out to eat I will just have a drink with them or perhaps just have the dessert course - most places are fine with that especialyl if there are a few of you ordering food - and there is usually something on the dessert menu I can eat. The most enjoyment comes from spending time with friends and being able to join in the banter. 

The people who know I've had cancer are absolutely fine about making small adjustments and if there are people who don't know I simply say I am on a special diet and leave it at that.

It took me a few years to realise that I had to accept some changes in my life and try to focus on what I can do rather than dwell on things I can't do any more.

Life may be different - but it's not over yet!!

Take care