Total Gastrectomy

Good morning.  Firstly welcome to this Forum where you will get much support.

I had my total gastrectomy in June 2025.  I had robotic gastrectomy so healing was very fast with no pain.  I will be honest and say the first few months are very difficult, not with pain but eating/drinking.  I also felt very weak and couldn't stand up or walk for long.  I have now lost over 3 stone.  I was a size 14 and now a size 8.  I had a severe thirst that no juice would quash.  I felt tired so please rest.  Everyone is totally different so this is my experience only.  Eat small portions and you will likely go off some foods.  I don't really like sweet foods now or crisps.  I was sick a few times due to "sweet foods" so your body will begin to tell you what it likes and does not.  Now the POSITIVE news.  5 months down the line and I feel much better and my portion size is increasing.  I can tolerate certain sweet food now etc.  I enjoy a tipple of "tawny port", I feel hungry most of the time and can eat more or less what I liked to eat before.  The weakness and tiredness has gone.  The only issue I have is my weight.  I need to speak with the Dietician to start protein supplements which I don't really enjoy.  You will get through this.  I was very fortunate and did not need chemo so sorry you are having to go through this.  It is best to try and eat every couple of hours which I find quite stressful as always "clock watching".  I also find it hard thinking of what to eat for snacks etc.  You will get through this and thinking of you.  I hope this helps.  Any questions please get in touch.  Shirley