My dad was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer about 2 months ago. Apparently it is operable but so far he has had only tests and examinations. He is still awaiting a blood test for kidney function. None of these hospital appointements have been local to my parents and my mum is getting increasingly agitated especially when she was told about the side effect he can expect from the 6 weeks of chemo preceding the operation. I live 2 hours drive away and am an only child so feel useless. Can anyone suggest a support group for my mum?

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dr Vinod K Joshi,

Hello kaitaz

Sorry to hear about your Dad. You will all need to take everything a day at a time and await the results. Worrying doesn't help. It is however useful to find out what you can.

The pharynx (throat) is a hollow tube about 5 inches long that starts behind the nose, goes down the neck, and ends at the top of the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus (the gullet - tube that goes from the throat to the stomach). Air and food pass through the pharynx on the way to the trachea or the esophagus. Cancer of the oesophagus is not a mouth cancer but several problems are common.

You will find comprehensive information on the
CancerBacup website: Cancer of the Gullet/Oesophagus.

Further help and information:
Oesophageal Patients Association
22 Vulcan House, Vulcan Road, Solihull, B91 2JY
Tel: 0121 704 9860
Provides information and support for people with oesophageal cancer.

Barrett’s Oesophagus Foundation was established in 1999 as a National Charity with the principal aims of:
• securing the long term future of The UK National Barrett’s Oesophagus Registry (UKBOR)
• establishing a patient support group for Barrett’s sufferers and their families
• funding research projects into the causes, prevention and treatment of Barrett’s oesophagus and oesophageal cancer

Your mum is welcome to use us for support.

Best wishes
Vinod

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dr Vinod K Joshi,