Are there any "intact" esophageal cancer survivors, or are all pretty debilitated?

Yes: I am not exactly sure what you mean, but there are many very well esophageal cancer survivors. Some have digestive and other issues, while some are fine.

Some, not many.: This is relatively extensive at presentation, with resection feasible in only 40% of patients. Cures are rare, and fewer than 20% of patients with resectable tumors survive 5 years. Hopefully, modern procedures will improve on these results.

Several: While the survival of esophageal cancer patients is not very high, as most present with advanced stages, those who do survive may very well have normal quality of life. Treatments are not debilitating, although some (such as surgery) do change eatings habits and lifestyle a bit.

Yes: Surgery for esophageal cancer, though challenging, can lead to cure and good quality of life. It is important to speak to a board certified thoracic surgeon to determine if surgery is the best and appropriate option. Other resources are: fightec.Org and http://bit.Ly/idbyzk.