just starting

john dylan
john dylan Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Esophageal Cancer #1
Just got the news and having all put in so as to be ready for the cemo/rad., have only been told it is a stage11 and need the final tests to see if it has spread anywhere, this site is going to be a big help as it sure can feel lonely and hopeless now, wish all here the best in this fight, john dylan

Comments

  • jim_shields
    jim_shields Member Posts: 2
    #2
    You are in control.
    Remember that you are in control of your treatment. Question everyone that treats you. The more that you know the more you empower yourself. If something doesn't seem right to you, tell the provider and make them explain what/why they are doing something. Get a notebook and write everything down. Log everything they do with date/time. List all medications you take, there can be a lot of them and they may change. Write down any changes you experience such as mood or appetite or aches and pains. Keep a folder with names and numbers of doctors, nurses and anyone else involved with your care. It gets overwhelming at times and sometimes you need help from different people to get you to and from treatment so its good to have all your info in one easy to access place. I know it can be beat, be positive and remember you are in control even if it doesn't seem like it.

    Jim, stage 3 survivor
  • GolfingDeb
    GolfingDeb Member Posts: 8
    #3
    Good Luck.This is a battle
    Good Luck.This is a battle like no other, but you can win. I wish we could have found this website earlier, it might have helped with some of the unknown apprehensive. Just keep asking questions and someone will answer. There is so much ahead of you. My hubby was stage 4 and his story is so different than what you'll go thru. But hang in there. There is life WITH cancer.

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