Recovery

Hi,

I’m so sorry to hear about your rough time, it’s been a tough journey for my husband also.  He was diagnosed in August and TG in September - he also had his spleen and part of pancreas removed at the time.  He wasn’t able to have chemo before surgery due to problems with his spleen but plan was for chemo post-op.  He ended up not being fit for chemo afterwards either so he’s still winging it.  

But despite a series of complications he now seems to be doing well.  He’s eating well and now even able for a pint of beer - the joy that’s brought him! It’s not that’s he’s ever been a big drinker but he just didn’t think he’d ever be able again. We aren’t sure how long this settled phase will last or if this is his new normal but if the last year has taught us anything it’s that we need to recognise and enjoy all the little things.  Emotionally, as I’m sure with you to, it’s been a total rollercoaster.  He has been very low at times and it took a while for him to process just how critically ill he had been at a few stages.  Sometimes he will even say he wished he had died as life feels like a battle and he had lost so much to cancer. Thankfully he’s currently in fighting mode again.

Sending positive thoughts your way x

Hello, same timescale as you, diagnosed in October 25, systemic ( FLOT and I paid privately for Durvalumab ) treatment and total gastrectomy in February. I wasn’t fit enough to complete post operative chemotherapy because of weight loss. I have a stricture at the oesophageal jejunal anastomosis, bile reflux oesphagitis and some malabsorption and now on tube feeding to supplement my food intake but not gaining any weight after almost 3 months. My energy levels are dire, I need help with all household tasks cooking shopping etc. Wouldn’t manage without all the support  from family and friends. The plan is to do a scan in 6 weeks time if I am still not picking up.  The unit does not undertake routine scans. I feel I am marking time rather than living at present but trying to remain sociable and meet up with people etc. Recovery can take 1 year they say so patience required.