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MRI results and next steps.

Once again there was an MDT meeting today and a path to move forward.

Mel started the call by saying ''I'm calling with what I think is a positive update for you. The surgeons are happy to proceed''

 So, our next step is the Ivor Lewis Oesophagectomy we've written about in previous posts.

Tony's MRI shows no lasting damage to his heart, no necrosis , (tissue death) no myocarditis (swelling), no blockages and both ventricles are working as they should.

We now await a pre op meeting with the surgical team, an appointment to have the PICC line removed. 

This part is a bit surreal really, we've always had surgery on the agenda, now that we know that's the next step it's both nerve wracking and really positive at the same time.

The Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy can feel like a daunting experience. It’s a major surgery often used to treat esophageal cancer. The procedure involves removing part of the esophagus and sometimes part of the stomach, then reattaching the remaining parts to allow normal digestion. Essentially, we're having the cancer cut out.

What makes the Ivor Lewis procedure stand out is that it’s minimally invasive, which means that instead of a large, single incision, the surgery can be done through smaller incisions using tiny cameras and instruments. This means less pain, quicker recovery times, and a reduced risk of complications. 

For anyone facing this procedure, just like us, it’s understandable to feel anxious. Side note, from experience and feedback from other couples who have been through this, it seems the partner is often more anxious than the person undergoing the surgery!

 Major surgery of any kind is intimidating, both for the patient and their loved ones. The thought of being away from normal life and being under the care of a medical team for such an involved procedure can raise countless questions and concerns. For partners and family members, it’s equally challenging – knowing someone you love is undergoing an operation, even with the minimally invasive approach, can leave you feeling vulnerable. Trusting the medical team to look after your better half can be really scary.

There's an added layer of anxiety for us as Tony is my ''primary care giver''. As we've mentioned before, I have type 1 diabetes. Long story short, It's very well controlled and causes me little to no issues. However a little over 2 years ago I suffered a major low blood sugar episode during the night, which almost killed me. The after effects of that developed into PTSD, as a result I can't sleep at night without knowing my safety net as I call it is in place. That safety net is quite complicated and i'd be explaining it all day, but one major component just so happens to be Tony! Tony being away from home for potentially 7 to 10 days adds another level of anxiety for both of us.

However, with a skilled medical team and proper support for both of us, the outcome will lead to improved health and quality of life, working towards being cancer free . The journey might be long, but it’s one that many have taken, with success and recovery stories as evidence of the resilience of both patients and their loved ones. Reaching out to people who have walked this very same path has been a valuble support for us and a huge confidence boost.

Facing major surgery can be a heavy burden, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. With each step forward, you gain strength, and having a partner or a support system by your side can make all the difference in feeling empowered and safe through the process.

If you or a loved one is facing the Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy, take comfort in knowing that this procedure is designed to improve long-term health outcomes, and with the right care, recovery is possible. Always lean on your medical team for answers, and don’t hesitate to ask questions – both for yourself and your partner.

As Tony often says ''this is a well worn path, many before me have walked it with great success. I can too''

We're now focused on pre op tests, meeting the surgical team and getting as much of the cancer out as possible.

Positive vibes!





 

 

 

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