Christine’s Story

“Why do you need soluble tablets?”

This was the question my doctor asked me which, unknown to me at the time, was about to save my life.

I was visiting my GP in August 2017 with pains in my hand and requested a stronger pain killer in soluble form.

I had previously choked trying to swallow a cod liver oil tablet but thought nothing of this because they tend to be a larger capsule. Fortunately the GP felt that this needed further investigation and referred me to the hospital  for an endoscopy.

Initially I was told there was nothing to be concerned about but they would do a further endoscopy in 3 month’s time (Nov 2017) just to keep an eye on things.

6mths later I was diagnosed with Barrett’s Oesophagus and on 22nd March they removed a 5cm tumour from my oesophagus. They had found a microscopic amount of cancer, the good news being that it had been “caught early” and could be treated. It wasn’t the worst news I was given, although to me it felt like it.

On the 23 May I had an operation (an Oesophagectomy) which successfully removed the cancer and thanks to my GP for her attentiveness I have been given a second chance.

I count my blessings every day for the love and support of my wonderful husband, friends, family & medical team in the Belfast City Hospital.

I am writing about my cancer journey coming up to 10 months post op and would encourage anyone who may have concerns to see their GP as a priority, early detection saved my life.