Stage Iv Stomach Cancer ?Z

Hello,
My 49 year old mother was just diagnosed with Stomach Cancer over Christmas. A week after diagnosis she had her complete stomach removed. After further testing on some fat tissue near the stomach they found 6 out of 10 of the lypthnodes were cancerous. Four weeks later they completed a CT/Pet Scan and Ultrasound and found that the cancer spread to the lympthnodes in her neck and she has a very large mass under her collar bone. They're now telling her that she's now in Stage IV and has 9 to 12 months to live. They've decided to forego the radiation and are now wanting to start a high dose of chemo therapy once a week for 5 months. I do know that every person's cancer is different, but is anyone out there that might provide a positive story in her similar situation, we could use some positive information?

My mother has already lost over 20 pounds she did not have to lose. She's still having a hard time consuming enough food to maintain her weight. Does anyone have any suggestions?
While eating she sometimes has issues with the food getting caught in her throat. Can anyone provide any helpful tips or suggestions? Is this normal? She's even having a hard time driking fluids. Apparently she feel as though it gets stuck in her throat as well.

As I'm sure most of you know this has been a complete SHOCK to our family. Three months ago we never would've thought that we could possibly lose the "rock" of our family, my mom. We're all trying to be very positive, but it's really hard to see her withering away every week.

Any suggestions tips would be greatly appreciated.
Holly S.

Dear Holly,

I am so sorry to hear that your mother has been diagnosed with Cancer. The first thing that I would do is seek a second opinion from a major medical center who specializes in nothing but cancer. there you would be able to find a doctor who specializes in your mothers type of cancer. I would also ask about inserting a feeding tube to help her with her nutrition as it is very important at this time that she keep her strength up. I would recommend, Carnation Instant breakfast, Ensure, Boost, Ice Cream, Peanut Butter, Baby food, mashed potatoes. I would stay away from meat,bread and lettuce as these items tend to get stuck in the esophagus. If she is having any pain, which is common with this type of cancer, please discuss with the doctor so that your mother can be medicated to ease her pain. Remind your mother when she is eating to take small bites and make sure the food is cut up very small. When it comes to liquids, I found drinking through a straw to be very helpful. I hope that this information helps you. I wish you luck in your search for answers. I would also ask your doctor about Hospice services as they are a wonderful group to work with and they will become an advocate for your mother to ensure she is getting the best possible care. Hospice also works with the family to educate them on what is happening to your mother. One more thing I might recommend is when you feel your mother is ready, that you discuss funeral and burial information. Does she have a living will? While these are hard subjects to discuss with someone you love, it is best to do it as early as possible, because they next few months will be spent going to doctors, hospitals and for treatments. And as time goes on your mother may become weaker and may not feel like discussing these delicate matters. God Bless you and your family, if you would like to talk I am here everyday reading the posts and I will be glad to help you in anyway that I can.

I hope your mom has begun responding to her chemotherapy. My brother was diagnosed with stomach cancer in December and had great difficulty with food and drink for what seemed like forever but finally, almost overnight, his stomach began working again. I pray this happens for your mom as well. Take care.
Atlanta