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New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
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May 18, 2004 - 6:04 pm
Hi. My husband had an EGD done yesterday because he was having problems with swallowing & some bowel issues. They found a mass in his lower esophagus and upper stomach- the dr. said he is certain it is cancer & took biopsies. He then sent us to the hospital for a CT scan (barium & dye). We meet with our primary physician tomorrow to go over the results of the tests. I am trying to remain positive, but I'm freaking out. My husband is 40 years old & is still recovering from back surgery that he had in March. I don't know where to begin looking for resources- I ran across this site today and have just begun reading through posts. Does anyone have any suggestions as far as questions to ask tomorrow? Thanks so much for your help. Shaun |
Joined: Mar 2004
Re: New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
Oh dear we need to stay in touch. I am in the same boat as you, but not quite as young. My husband was 54 when diagnosed in December. Had the same thing as your hubby. I live in small city in Ohio..we went to the University cancer clinic in Ohio..best decision we ever made. He had his entire stomach removed and afer the surgery they put in a feeding tube that he used for about 6 weeks. After that he ate whatever he wanted almost. Just very small meals and lots of times per day. He went through 8 weeks of chemo ( side effects were mild ) BUT he is now in the chemo/radiation combined treatment phase. This takes place for 6 to 8 weeks. They wear a chemo pump and do radiation mon-fri. This phase is BRUTAL as he had to take two breaks in this treatment process because he could not eat. He is now on feeding by TPN for a few days to gain some nutrition back. Please support him in every way you can. If I can help you can e mail me. Always here for you.
Joined: Jul 2004
Re: New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
see my reply to Shaun. Hope all goes well for your husband too.
Joined: Aug 2004
Re: New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
Sorry to hear your story. My dad was diagnosed with stomach and colon cancer in March '04. He had a total gastrectomy and part of his colon removed in March and has since been going through chemo/radiation. It has been over 4 weeks since he's had any treatment and he feels so bad that they have postponed his chemo that was supposed to resume a week and a half ago. He is so sick, has lost 65 pounds and can not eat or drink anything. He is 62 years old. He has been on TPN foe a few weeks now as he was dehydrated and showing signs of starvation. Is it normal for him to feel SO lousy when he hasn't had treatment in so long???? Will he ever feel better??? The doctors don't seem to know why he's so sick. Can anyone help??
Joined: May 2003
Re: New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
Karen and Shaun,
I am so sorry both of you are having to face stomach cancer in your loved ones. I am a stomach cancer survivor. I just want you to know it is possible to beat this beast. I was diagnosed in Oct of 02, had esophagogastrectomy in the same month, then chemo, then chemo and radiation. IT was a tough go for a while, but I am back to work, back to everything I did pre diagnosis. I did loose soem weight but am at a healthy weight for me. I am now cancer free. I pray you have the same success I have been priveledged to enjoy.
Joined: Mar 2004
Re: New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
Thanks so much for the encouraging words. I get this feeling this will take time, but everything will be okay down the road. I just turn to prayer in the tough times. Thanks again bke
Joined: Aug 2004
Re: New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
bke, my sister's fiancee was diagnosed with stomach cancer stage 4. He is 33 years old and his cancer has already spreaded to the esophagus,liver,upper and lower diaphram. What to do? I just lost my mother-inlaw back in February 04 to bone mets. I'm trying so hard to give her support, but i was so close to my mother-inlaw i personally don't know how much longer i can be supportive. I have my doubts, you hear of successful stories but, are they actually true. Please give me some hope what do you think his chances are? Kristine
Joined: Jul 2004
Re: New User- Stomach/Esophageal Cancer
The best advice I can give is stay positive. and try to make sure the patient does too! I had my stomach removed two years ago, just after my 70th birthday. The cancer was right at the top of my stomach. I lost a bit of weight, and that continues to be a problem, but I'm now back to a very active life. Eating is always a bit problematic, and I'd like to be able to put on a few pounds, but when you've been through that experience these problems are nothing. The world is now a much better place, and I'm so thankful to be alive. I hope your husband comes out of it as well.