esophageal cancer diagnosis mum

Hello, this is my first post here.

We found out last month that my mum has esophageal cancer and I'm so scared. Her husband, my dad died in February this year from cancer (lymphoma) and Covid which makes this all worse. Because Covid was overwhelming hospitals etc he was very delayed getting a diagnosis of his cancer and by that time it was too late. He wouldn't have even been seen by doctors if my mum hadn't shouted down the phone to them it was that bad. He died alone in hospital. I had to watch him suffer for ages and lose weight and I still can't get that out of my mind. 

We aren't even over all that yet and now this news with my mum. I can't believe this is happening. Im so scared because I've looked on the internet and esophageal cancer doesn't seem to have positive statistics associated with it. I'm worried that my mum will now get the same ill and delayed treatment that my dad got.

All my mum has ever done is think about other people and be kind to them and be strong she doesn't deserve any of what has happened to her the past year. 

Doctors have said that the lump is quite large and they are doing two more scans on her to make sure it hasn't spread. Does anyone have any advice with how to cope with this or any positive stories? She's having to liquidise her food because of the lump. 

 

Thank you for reading x 

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat Franface although I'm so sorry to hear your dad passed away from lymphoma and covid earlier this year and that your mum has now been diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. 

    You've both been through so much, and to receive this news must have, understandably, been very upsetting. We have quite a large oesophageal cancer community on the forum so I hope some of our members pick up on your post soon and get back to you but if you would like to read up on your mum's diagnosis, you can do so just here.

    I'm sure you both have a lot of thoughts and questions playing on your mind at the moment so if either of you would like to speak with one of our cancer nurses whilst you wait for the next two scans to take place then do be sure to give them a call on 0808 800 4040. Their phone lines are open Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and they will do everything they can to support you at this time.

    I really hope the results show the cancer hasn't spread and treatment can get underway soon.

    Best wishes to you both,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

     

  • Hi,

     

    just wondering how your mum is?

     

    Xxx

  • Hi there, well we've had some good and bad things happened to us since I posted here. Her Lapronosopy revealed that it's inoperable because the lump has attached to her liver which we were a bit in shock about. 

    On the good side, last week she had a stent fitted and has been eating more than ever since she was first diagnosed in November which is good to see. I think this has improved her mental health too because she was getting very down and bored with her liquid diet. She even got an indian takeaway today. 

    We have an oncology appointment on the 2nd, not entirely sure what this will be about but I think it will be to discuss her chemo options. 

    I've read through your recent posts, I'm so so sorry about your lovely mother and your recent worries. I sincerely hope that your results come back soon and you get some positive news after all you've been through xx

  • Aww thanks you ️ Endoscopy on the 2nd, can't wait for it to be over.

     

    I'm sorry to hear about it being inoperable for you mum but there are amazing stories on here of people living with oesophageal cancer and getting on with their lives. 
     

    My mams was a lot more advanced than your mums. She was offered chemotherapy but didn't want it.

     I'm so glad your mum is eating more. It'll definitely help with her mental health. It will also give her more energy.

     

    good luck on the 2nd, I'll be thinking of you and your mum.

     

    Tricia xx

  • Hi Tricia, thank you for your lovely reply and again, I'm so sorry about your mum. 

    Good luck with your appointment tomorrow also, I'll be thinking of you too. xxx