Dear All
I posted here prior to my oesophagectomy op and received so much helpful advice which I took on board prior to and after my surgery. I felt listening to other peoples experiences have helped me through some of the darkest and most difficult times whilst I was in hospital and in recovery. Hearing your stories I knew that there was hope and light at the end of the tunnel, hence why I'm back to ask more about peoples experiences of having the ECX chemotherapy.
My op was on the 21st Feb all text book and recovery although rough ride at the start I was out within 9 days. I did get a slight infection on my lung and subsequently given a course of antibiotics. I as given my pathology results last week which showed that the cancer had spread to my oesophagus wall therefore confirming to us that the operation was the right way to go. They had also remove 23 lymph nodes in which 22 clear but 1 showing the presence of cancer. As consequence to this the surgeon has recommended that I do chemo as a 'mopping up' exercise, which I'm gutted about but completely understand the whys!
Yesterday I went to see the oncologist who has told me that I will be having the ECX chemotherapy- 6 sessions. I'm aware that most people prior to op have 3 sessions prior and 3 after- but I'm concerned if my body will be able to withstand the 6 sessions in succession. I'm absolutely dreading it as I didn't cope well with the drugs in hospital and required a lot of anti-sickness, and now this which I hear can be brutal! The Dr informed me that they have a window to undertake the chemo in being the max 12 weeks from surgery - on that basis they have recommended that I commence the week after next so I will be nearing 6 weeks post op.
I would appreciate your honesty, experiences and advice if you have any to help me, my husband and my young boys through this period.
Kindest regards,
Jo