Patient Experiences

Norma 

I had an operation to remove the cancer from my oesophagus. I had a feeding tube put in at the same time. I spent 3 weeks in hospital. I was very scared and nervous about using the feeding pump but I had great help over the telephone and home visits from the Nutricia Nurse. I am confident using my feeding pump now. I find it very helpful to have the tube when I have side effects from chemotherapy such as sickness, taste changes and diarrhoea. My Dietitian has been reviewing me every week at chemotherapy and has helped me manage my side effects and gain a little weight. I feel very well supported.

Moira

I was struggling to swallow food before starting my chemotherapy. I could only swallow drinks. My Dietitian suggested I come into hospital for a naso-gastric (NG) feeding tube. It was a bit uncomfortable getting the NG tube put in but you soon get used to it. The NG tube allowed me to continue my treatment and stopped me losing more weight. After I had a few cycles of chemotherapy my swallow returned to almost normal and I got the NG tube out. For anyone experiencing this, I would recommend getting the NG feeding tube.

Jen 

I have pancreatic cancer and go into hospital for chemotherapy every week. I take pancreatic enzymes called Creon to help me digest and get the goodness from my food. My Dietitian reviews me when I come in for chemotherapy and advises me on how many Creon I should take based on what food I eat and what symptoms I have. I find this reassuring. Since starting Creon, I no longer have diarrhoea, stomach cramps or lots of wind. I am more confident going out to meet friends and feel like I can enjoy my life better. My top tip is don’t be embarrassed to discuss your symptoms with your team.

Colin

I have had bowel cancer for two years. When I was admitted to hospital I got my weight checked and it had gone down. I was offered extra snacks and special menus to help. My Dietitian gave me tips on what to eat and gave me build up drinks to help my weight. I took these drinks between meals as they can fill you up! I kept taking these once I got home and my Dietitian phoned me at home to check on how I was doing. These build up drinks have helped boost my energy, I now feel strong enough to walk my dog again. If you try these build up drinks and don’t like the flavour ask to try another flavour, the strawberry one is my favourite. I like to add strawberries and milk to my drinks and freeze them to make a tasty pudding.