Probably not a surgery candidate

Freida
Freida Member Posts: 182
in Esophageal Cancer #1
We had our first appointment at M D Anderson today. Have a whole bunch more tests scheduled to determine exact staging. Dr thinks 3 or 2. Because of Bill's many other health problems the oncologist thinks he is probably not a candidate for such a major surgery as they don't think he would survive the surgery. Something I was half expecting. They are going to run a bunch of tests to make sure, but that is what their initial feeling is. So, their current thinking is that rather than starting with the usual chemo radiation combo, they will start with 2 months of chemo, then follow that with a radiation/chemo combination for six weeks. He is having a PICC line put in tomorrow and, depending on other tests, may have the first chemo next week.

The Doctor was quite honest that the best chance for survival normally is the chemo/radiation followed by surgery. But said in Bill's case they will do the best they can with chemo and radiation.

Comments

  • TerryV
    TerryV Member Posts: 887
    #2
    Prayers for you both
    Freida,

    I'm glad the doctors have a plan for Bill. Chemo & Rads with a goal of remission is still a fine goal considering that Bill has other health issues.

    If I have learned one thing through my husband's journey with EC, it's to make the most of each day we have each other. From other posts of yours that I have read, it sounds like you and Bill have already learned that most important life lesson.

    I have heard so many positive things about the care at M D Anderson. Glad the docs are moving forward quickly to get Bill the treatments that he is able to receive. I'm sure he will be cared by both MDA *and* you.

    Our positive thoughts and prayers go with you as you and Bill begin EC treatments.

    Love & Hugs,

    Terry
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    #3
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  • Freida
    Freida Member Posts: 182
    #4
    unknown said:

    This comment has been removed by the Moderator

    Hi WilliamBill has heart
    Hi William
    Bill has heart and lung damage from blood clots several years ago. He has very reduced pulmonary function due to that. Is also on coumadin because of risk of more blood clots. They did an EKG yesterday and are doing a pulmonary function test tomorrow. He also has circulation problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, low thyroid - buy I think it is the heart/lung problems that are the main concern. They are doing several more tests before they make a decision. That is why I said probably.
    Freida
  • JReed
    JReed Member Posts: 428
    #5
    Bill @ MD Anderson
    Hi Freida;

    You have been on our minds - thank you for the update. Keep us posted and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Hugs to both you and Bill.

    Judy

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