I didn’t feel unwell or have any noticeable symptoms, I just had what I would describe as occasional mild acid reflux and then during a couple of evening mealtimes I found it hard to swallow the first few mouthfuls.
Once I cleared them, I could then enjoy the meal as normal. We had a big family holiday planned so my wife suggested I get it checked so I could enjoy the holiday without worrying or experiencing similar symptoms whilst away. The next few weeks were a rollercoaster, kick started with an endoscopy, then various other tests which concluded with the fact I had Oesophageal cancer at the age of 46.
Identification
Following my referral to the specialist they completed an endoscopy and at this stage there were lots of reassurances that it could be one of many things. Further tests were completed including a biopsy and the outcome was I had a tumour at the base of my oesophagus and into the top of my stomach. Subsequent tests concluded that the cancer hadn’t spread any further and the fact that I was otherwise fit and healthy, treatment and surgery was possible and this started very quickly after the diagnosis.
Looking back, I think the worst part of this process was the not knowing, and whilst it may sound strange, once I was told I had cancer and that there was a treatment plan in place, I actually felt better.
The treatment pathway recommended was FLOT chemotherapy which would consist of 4 sessions spread two weeks apart. Then I would have a short break to build up my strength so I was in the best possible position to undergo the 12 hour surgery to remove the tumour, my Oesophagus, the upper part of my stomach and lymph nodes. Following another period of recovery, I would then repeat the same chemotherapy as before the surgery to ensure the cancer was completely gone.
Thanks to the talented team at Royal Surrey and advancements in medical science, I was able to have my stomach surgery using robotics and the Oesophagus element by keyhole (further advancements since mean both elements can be done by robotics).
Following a couple of days in ICU being encouraged to very quickly get on my feet and start moving around and undertake exercises, I was able to achieve the speediest recovery possible and remarkably was back home just over a week after my surgery!
The recovery process then began at home including continuing with my feeding tube providing me with 1,000 calories every night to help me whilst I built up my eating.
Life after treatment...
Treatment
One of the milestones that I will always recall (of which there are many in this process), was the removal of my feeding tube as this felt like confirmation that I was back up to speed. I am now back to eating everything I want, albeit in smaller portions and I would say I am now a fitter, slimmer (every cloud!) and healthier version of myself!
The taste side effects from the chemotherapy have gone and outside of feeling the cold more than before, especially in my fingers, I am back to leading a normal life, something I am eternally grateful for. I am back at work, have enjoyed a number of holidays and I even rode the fastest roller coaster in the world less than a year after my surgery!
This is all thanks to everyone who supported me through this journey including my wife, daughter, family and friends, my surgeon Shaun Preston, my Oncologist Seb Cummings, my dietician Fiona Huddy and all of the supporting team at Royal Surrey and beyond.
View more of Paul's videos on his YouTube channel here - where he shares his journey.
