3rd "Birthday"

bingbing2009
bingbing2009 Member Posts: 177
in Esophageal Cancer #1

 

It  was 3 years ago today that I had my Ivor Lewis surgery. It has been a long, difficult journey—definitely a roller coaster ride. My life has been forever changed due to my esophagectomy in ways that only another person who has experienced EC surgery can understand. Having to sleep elevated, watching what I eat and how I eat it, having different stomach issues, suffering from reflux or even aspiration at times—well, such is the life of an EC surgery survivor. Even the smallest of things like bending over to tie your shoes can create major problems. Yes, I have my times when it would be easy to have a pity party, perhaps after a night or several days or even a week of suffering from some stomach issue. However, I truly know how blessed and fortunate I am to simply be alive. There are many others who have bravely battled this beast and sadly lost their battle. Somehow I don’t think they would mind having any of these problems if only they could be here with their friends and family again. Rather puts things in perspective, doesn’t it? So on this 3rd anniversary of my surgery, I would like to say that I am thankful for all I have and to be enjoying life to the fullest. Life is truly good.

 

I would also like to thank my wonderful husband, who has been by my side every step of the way throughout this cancer journey. I truly don’t think I would be here if it hadn’t been for him. From nurse to therapist to secretary to physical therapist to personal trainer to cheerleader to chief cook and cleaner—you name it, he was it. V, I love you more than you could ever know. You are truly my soul mate.

 

Melinda

DX October 2009:  T3N1M0

November and December 2009:  chemo (Cisplatin and 5 FU) and radiation

February 2010:  Ivor Lewis surgery

 

 

 

 

Comments

  • paul61
    paul61 Member Posts: 1,392 Member
    #2
    Congratulations!!!!

    Melinda,

     Congratulations on your three year anniversary!!! It can sometimes be a battle for those of us with modified digestive systems, but it is wonderful to still be here. May you have many more birthdays!!!!!

     Best Regards,

    Paul Adams

    McCormick, South Carolina

    DX 10/2009 T2N1M0  Stage IIB - Ivor Lewis Surgery  12/3/2009 - Post Surgery Chemotherapy 2/2009 – 6/2009

    Cisplatin, Epirubicin, 5 FU - Three Year Survivor 

  • CarolandJoe
    CarolandJoe Member Posts: 23
    #3
    Congratulations on your third

    Congratulations on your third anniversary!  My husband had his surgery on 1/8/13 so it is very encouraging to hear your story.  He is still adjusting to his new digestive system and learning how to live on with it.  We are optimistic that he will have many anniversaries in the future.  Best wishes for many more wonderful years with your husband and congratulations to you both for being survivors. 

    Carol

  • GerryS
    GerryS Member Posts: 227 Member
    #4
    Congrats......

    Congrats Melinda!    So true! We survivors all feel blessed to be living and continue to support and pray for all battling this disease.   My three year check up this week, hope to join you in celebration.    Gerry

     

    Dx.  2/24/10

    IL.    3/22/10

    stage 2N1M0

     

  • bingbing2009
    bingbing2009 Member Posts: 177
    #5
    GerryS said:

    Congrats......

    Congrats Melinda!    So true! We survivors all feel blessed to be living and continue to support and pray for all battling this disease.   My three year check up this week, hope to join you in celebration.    Gerry

     

    Dx.  2/24/10

    IL.    3/22/10

    stage 2N1M0

     

    Your Anniversary is Soon!

    Gerry, I see that you're not far behind me. In barely over a month, you will be celebrating that 3rd year anniversary, too. Best of luck on your check up this week. Sending good thoughts your way, although I'm sure you'll get a good result.

    Melinda

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