We offer all of our support and advice to patients and their families free of charge. The OPA is able to continue providing these essential services thanks to donations and community fundraising efforts.

It takes a significant amount of funding to keep our vital services running, offering advice, support, and practical help. Each year, we distribute thousands of booklets and leaflets as invaluable resources to NHS Trusts, support groups, Macmillan, patients, carers, and many other organisations – all provided at no cost, funded by the OPA. Your generous donations help us continue supporting those who need it. To donate, please visit: https://opa.org.uk/donations/.

Nationwide Support

For over 30 years, the OPA has been at the forefront of the fight against oesophageal and gastric cancers. Our mission is to support patients, their families, and caregivers, while raising awareness of Acid Reflux, these cancers and their prevention. Wherever you are in your journey, the OPA is here to help.

In-Person Support Meetings

In-person support meetings provide a welcoming space for patients, caregivers, and their families to come together and share their experiences. These gatherings offer emotional support, practical advice, and encouragement from both peers and professionals who understand the challenges of living with cancer. By fostering a sense of community, the meetings help reduce feelings of isolation and empower individuals to navigate their journey with greater confidence.

Online Support Meetings

By sharing experiences and discussing challenges, we can help one another address common concerns. Throughout the year, online support meetings are held across the UK, mostly attended by patients who have had or are scheduled for surgery. These meetings aim to support patients, families, and carers in coping with treatment-related challenges and achieving a good quality of life. These sessions offer the chance to meet former patients and carers, some of whom lead relatively normal lives. Online invitations are sent electronically. If you’d like to join, please subscribe here. You can also view a selection of independent group locations here.

Patient Buddy Support

We also provide the opportunity for patients to speak directly with a former patient for reassurance that life can be fulfilling again. We understand that the weeks and months surrounding treatment can be daunting, and many find it helpful to talk to someone who has been through similar experiences.

Our volunteers—current or former patients—are available to offer guidance, support, and encouragement. While the OPA does not provide medical advice or counseling, we offer suggestions based on personal experience, including questions to ask your GP, diet tips, and more.

If you’d like to connect with someone, please complete the form here.

Newsletters

Sign up for our biannual newsletter, featuring articles, news, and updates on treatments. Scroll to the bottom of this page to subscribe. You can also download and read our latest newsletters here.

Booklets and Leaflets

Dual Purpose Cards

Dual Purpose cards, which request smaller portions of food due to a medical condition, are available in multiple languages, including English, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish, Korean, and Mandarin Chinese.

For more information, visit our Download Page or order hard copies from the OPA Shop.