Welcome newbies

sandy1943
sandy1943 Member Posts: 824
in Esophageal Cancer #1

Welcome, to all the newbies. I haven't checked in for a while and was surprised at all the new ones. I decided to address you all at once. I know how shocking the EC diagnoses was, but know that cancer is not a death sentence. You are all going to go on a rollercoaster , and sometimes you'll think it will never end.

We are made up of a lot of caregivers, that have gained so much knowledge and love to be of any help they can; and of course the survivors that also want to help in any way we can.

In 2007 at the age of 64,I was diagnosed stage three with lymph node involvement. I had chemo and the ivor lewis surgery in 2008. After surgery my pathology report showed I was still positive in one node. Chemo was started but had to be stopped because of complications. Even so ,my next scan showed I was cancer free. This Jan. I was told I am cancer free--I passed my five year mark. I would never have believed when I started the journey, that I would be where I am today. I lost 99 pds.after surgery, but have finally gained 13 back. I'm healthier than before cancer. It was a rough journey, but worth it for the outcome. Life is good. There will be some life changes, but we are smart and can learn to adjust.

Praying for each of you, Sandra

Comments

  • AKRN2013
    AKRN2013 Member Posts: 22
    #2
    Inspiring!

    Sandra,

     

    thanks you for your words of encouragement.  Congratulaitons on reaching the five year mark!  So inspiring.  I think that those of us just starting on this journey need to know that depsite the depressing prognosis there are those who beat it and live healthy lives!  I know it will be a tough road but I think this site will help as my family learns to navigate through the world of cancer!  I acutally am a pediatric nurse who specializes in pediatric oncology but I feel just as frazzled by the diagnosis as the rest of the family.  Sometimes I think I know too much. 

     

    Thank you again for you support.

     

    Heather

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