Age 28 and stomach cancer

Hey Chloe,

I'm sorry about your diagnosis, I'm also 28 and was diagnosed last September. Getting cancer at our age is such a shock, especially one where all I seemed to hear was 'you're too young for this cancer'! 

I had 8 rounds of chemo followed by total gastrectomy in February. Treatment can be tough but I just tried to take things day by day and enjoy those when I felt better. 

I've found this group really helpful for support by reading other stories and I would also recommend a charity called Shine, which aims to help people in their 20s, 30s and 40s with cancer.

Hope all goes well!

Dan

Thank you so much for your reply Dan! I wondered if I could ask you some questions? I hope you’re doing well ️ what kind of cancer did you have? Did you cancer have signet ring cells & if so did this respond to FLOT? Did you have 8 round before TG? Or 4 before and 4 after. And what stage was your cancer? Its completely fine if you don’t want to answer any questions, thanks clo x

Hi, thank you and I  start chemo next Weds 8th May. Picc  line to be fitted on the 7th.  I had a long discussion with my chemo nurse this morning to prepare me.  I was surprised the infusions will take 3 days with 48hrs at home with a small pump. 

 Some of the side effects sound concerning, especially the potential issues with cold.  I have been advised not to eat and drink anything cold and wear gloves if I need to go into the fridge for food / drink.  

Are you near to or started or starting chemo and were you aware about these cold issues. 

I had my first one yesterday! I was also told about the cold things, I just keep getting a little spasm in my throat when I drink water so far. I can tell I’m going to get mouth ulcers as all my mouth and tongue is swollen today :( I didn’t expect the side effects so quickly but I suppose it’s working! Good luck with your picc and your chemo ️

I had 8 sessions of FLOT all in winter.

I was warned about going into the fridge and going outside in the xold.

The side effect for me was pins and needles in hands and face that went away quickly when I went back into a warm environment 

Hope this helps!

Thanks Chloe for your reply.  I have been warned that some of the side effects can occur almost immediately.  Good luck with your treatment. 

Sorry, I forgot to ask is your chemo session lasting 3 days ( as mine is)  with a small pump being fitted at the end of your first 3 infusions on day 1.  This is then on for 48hrs whilst you sit at home.  If so, is it comfortable and did you sleep ok?

Best Wishes

David

Thank you for the information.  I hope I only have similar issues to you. 

Best Wishes

David

Hope all goes well David

Very best wishes 

Mine was 24 hours! Pump is comfortable to take home you won’t know it’s there so don’t worry!