The demand for such a program is evident from various aspects:
Population Statistics: The prevalence of individuals living with Oesophageal Cancer and undergoing treatment, as well as those who have survived the treatment phase.
Family, Carer & Community Support: The network of families, carers and friends of patients constitutes a substantial community in dire need of support.
Database of Seekers: Regular interactions with patients and families have led to the creation of a database of 200 individuals actively seeking information and support.
Peer-to-Peer Support Demand: The demand for peer-to-peer support extends beyond the annual conference in Dublin.
Clinic Recommendations: Eminent professionals from specialized clinics like St. James Oesophageal Cancer Centre of Excellence, Beaumont, Cork University Hospital, and Galway Hospital have highlighted the scarcity of patient and caregiver support services beyond clinical settings.
“Oesophageal cancer treatments can result in significant challenges for patients in relation to nutritional intake, weight, strength, fatigue, and
altered bowel habits, as well as having a major impact to psychological well-being. Although these challenges are maximum in the first year after treatment, there can be legacy consequences for many years. Accordingly, supports as proposed by the OCF including an information line, peer support coordination, educational resources, webinars and videos, and social events enabling peer support, are all excellent modalities to develop for our patients.
Multidisciplinary teams at all the oesophageal cancer centres in Ireland would greatly welcome the opportunity to work with the OCF in enhancing the experience of patients and their families through such initiatives, this will undoubtedly improve quality of life and overall outcomes.”
Oesophageal Cancer Information Line: A confidential phone service offering support to those affected by Oesophageal Cancer. Available Monday to Friday, 9.30 am to 5 pm.
Peer support coordination: Linking patients who contact the Oesophageal Cancer Fund with survivors of Oesophageal Cancer who are engaged with the organisation as peer support volunteers
Online Educational Resources: Comprehensive topics ranging from diagnosis, service accessibility, support, and benefits, to connecting with Oesophageal Cancer Fund community worker services.
Live & Online Classes: Live sessions in nutrition, diet, “carer support” and mindfulness, supplemented by a repository educational class of prior and post treatment self-care tips.
Clinic Engagement: Participation in clinics nationwide (St. James Hospital, Beaumont Hospital, Cork University Hospital) raising awareness and distributing Oesophageal Cancer Fund Patient Care Packs containing crucial information about Oesophageal Cancer and the supports available from the Oesophageal Cancer Fund.
Webinars and Videos: Expert-led educational sessions covering medical, emotional, and well-being aspects of Oesophageal Cancer survivorship. Podcasts, webinars, and in-person sessions on pre and post surgery care.
Annual Calendar of Social Events: Including regional gatherings, regular online peer-to-peer support groups, professional-led and educational online groups hosted by experienced professionals working specifically with Oesophageal Cancer, family & friend support groups, and the Annual National Support Conference. Localised events across Ireland will also be introduced.
