Husband Told he has oesophageal cancer

Ten days ago my world fell in.  My OH was told he had oesophageal cancer following CT, bloods and endoscopy.  Today the medics are scheduled to discuss his case and we should hear tomorrow what the prognosis is and any possible treatment plan.

We have been married over 42 years and I have quite severe mobility problems, so he's not just my husband but my carer too.  This news is devastating.  I can't eat, sleep or think straight, I can't stop crying but I know I should try harder to be strong for him to face all that's coming.  Above all I find I am angry, very angry at the unfairness of it all, that this should happen to such a genuine, nice, caring person, who is a wonderful husband and father to our children

What can we expect?  They think they have caught it early so will this mean chemo, surgery or what?  He is struggling currently to keep down any food that is anything other than soup or yoghurt and has lost a lot of weight since July.

  • Hello tourerginger

    I'm so sorry to hear about your husband's recent diagnosis of oesophageal cancer. It's obviously been an incredibly difficult time for you both and it's absolutely natural to be feeling as you've described in your post. It really isn't fair. 

    Hopefully, by now you've heard from the team and the next steps have been discussed with your husband and you've both had some reassurance about what will happen. 

    I wanted to let you know about this active thread on the forum. As you can see there are hundreds of posts, both from members who have been or are going through treatment for OC, along with quite a few partners of people who have been through diagnosis and treatment. I'd really encourage you to post a message on that thread. I'm sure some of our members such as [@Hilts][@dooggreg]‍ and [@RayB]‍ will respond to share their experiences with you both. 

    I also wanted to let you know that we have a team of nurses that you can call to speak with. It can often help to talk things through with someone, and I'm sure they will be happy to offer any advice, information, and support that they can. If you'd like to chat with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Keep in touch tourerginger. There are lots of people in this community who have been through this diagnosis and treatment. Hopefully you'll be able to connect with them and find some support. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator