CancerCompass message board discussion started by Lou Ann M. on 12/3/2003 http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,790,0.htm Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss RSS.NET: http://www.rssdotnet.com/ I was diagnosed with stomach cancer in June 2003. This was very devastating news for my husband and I as I am only 45 years old. My husband of two years and I have five children and five grandchildren between us and are very much looking forward to watching them grow up so we are not giving up hope. I had half of my stomach removed and although they got all of the tumor they found cells in 6 out of 9 lymph nodes. I just finished chemo last week and have been through five weeks of radiation. I will be tested within the next couple of weeks to find out where I stand. I would like to here from anyone else who has this type of cancer and share information with them. From what I have learned this type of cancer is not common for my age and gender and I have been told that this is not an easy type to cure. Lou Ann M. Wed, 03 Dec 2003 00:00:00 GMT Hi Louann, My mother was diagnosed with stomach cancer 2 years ago. She is now 56. I understand what you mean. She had her whole stomach removed and they did biopsies on her esophogus and found microscopic cancer cells. she went through chemotherapy and we thought she was cancer free. She did blood tests, cat scans, petscans, biopsies every 3 months. It never showed any cancer. She had her gall bladder removed last week and they found cancer cells back where her reconnection was done (esophogus and intestines). Her oncologist says there are clinical trials she could go to out of town. She's not giving up. Let me know how you are doing? Mirat Mirat Mon, 21 Jun 2004 00:00:00 GMT Hi: I'm writing on behalf of my wife. She is now 46 years old. She was diagnosed with stomach cancer in Feb. of 2003. She had surgery to remove 2/3 of her stomach. Unfortunately, the cancer was located in the lower quadrant and it had permeated the stomach wall. It was discovered late due to an ulcer on top of the tumor. She had a endoscopy done in November of 2003 which found the ulcer. Biopsies done at that time came back negative. They did not reveal any cancer. The followup in February, however, did reveal the tumor. At the time of the surgery (March '03), the cancer had spread to 7 of 15 lymph nodes in the stomach area. She was staged at a 3-4. She had radiation treatment 5 days a week for 5 weeks. And at the same time, was undergoing intensive Chemotherapy. She was getting Oxylaplatin every two weeks in an IV drip, and 5FU on a 24/7 pump. She too did not fit the "norm" for gastric cancer. It is prevalent in Asian Males over the age of 50. She is obviously female, 45 years old, and caucasian. Go figure that one out! And the good news.......She went into remission last November, and is still in remission now! She has her blood markers checked every 6 weeks, and CT Scans done every 3 months. I believe that her remarkable turnaround, was due to a very aggressive chemo, and radiation regimen, prescribed by the Doctor who gave us the 2nd opinion. We are with Kaiser Permanente, but the Doctor who prescribed her treatment is a leading Oncologist at the USC Norris Cancer Center. He has been a life saver for us, in my opinion. There is hope for you. I didn't think my wife had a chance of beating this at all, in the beginning. But I sure was glad to be wrong. Jay B. Jay B. Mon, 18 Oct 2004 00:00:00 GMT Mira T. & Jay B. I would like to know how your loved ones are doing, as well as yourselves. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Keep the Faith, and God Bless. S Sandra H. Wed, 08 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT Jay and family- I am happy your wife is doing so well. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 stomach cancer (adenocarcinoma) in Jan of 2004, had a total gastrectomy (stomach removal) on 1/30/04, (prognosis was 12 months to live) and did chemotherapy at U of Mich, consisting of carboplatin and taxol, from April to September of 2004. Unfortunately, the chemo did not seem to work (effectively long term anyway) as I had obstructions in Sept and November of this year (2004) with the latter resulting in the need for additional surgery (bypass of the obstructed small bowel so that food could once again pass thru the system). At the time of my Nov. 2004 surgery my surgeon advised that he could not extend my life (expected prognosis- 4 weeks to 4 months)but could give me a better quality of life (food intake) which he did, but now the tumor is again obstructing or closing down the system. Even tho I understand that the cancer was at one time dispersed and thus hard to radiate, I am curious why my docs did not recommend radiation as they did with your wife...(altho the tumor is now intertwuined with the bowels so now it may be even harder to do) Any thoughts on that? By the way, ulcers, often caused by a bacteria (H Pylori bacteria) are often/usually a prime ingredient for persons with stomach cancer. H Pylori is often passed in families, so all family memebers should be checked for this potentially lethal stomach cancer pre-cursor. I am now at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Chicago asking God for a miracle as my system continues to shut down and my body (already down in weight by 1/3) continues to shed weight. Would appreciate your prayers, thoughts and suggestions. TR Atrand Thu, 16 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT Anthony, you are certainly in my prayers. As to why your Doctors made the decisions they did, I have no answer for that. I can only say that every Doctor has his/her own regimen. Even with my wife, we had one Oncologist at Kaiser, who did not agree with the USC Oncologist at all. Thought his recommendation was way too experimental and wanted us to follow Kaisers approved plan. After doing my homework, I found Kaisers plan to be a 15 year old regimen that offered no hope at all. It was a bandaid type of treatment. The plan from the USC Doctor was in fact, cutting edge treatment, but Kaiser went along with it at my insistance. All I can say is, I'm glad I kept persuing other avenues of treatment. My wife continues to be in complete remission, which I can only attribute to the aggressive treatment and a miracle. Nov. 7th marked the one year point for her remission. I can only hope and pray that it continues. I wish you all the best in your fight and I will keep you in my prayers. Jay Jay B. Thu, 16 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT Sandra, I appreciate your concern and would like to let you that Nov. 7th marked the 1 yr anniversary of my wife's being in remission. She returned to her full time work routine last March, after being out of work for one year. She's doing great. A helluva lot better than all the Doctors said she would. Can't explain it, but certainly not complaining. I'm hangin' in there and can only hope that this continues for as long as possible. Thank you so much for asking about us. Jay Jay B. Thu, 16 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT Jay- Thanks. I too will keep you and your wife in my prayers. God Bless. TR Atrand Thu, 16 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT First of all, what type of stomach cancer do you have? I am recovering from a partial gastrectomy (1/4 to 1/3 removal of my stomach). I have Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. I am considered "cured" at this time. But my doc says this type cancer typically will return, possibly someplace else. I have a friend that lost 1/2 of her stomach to adenoma. SO it depends on the type and stage. Mine was stage 1 type B. I am praying for you! Hugs, Melody Melodyd Tue, 08 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hi Lou-Ann, I just signed up today. On Friday, March 18th I found out my dad was diagnosed with cancer of the stomach. (I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma and he is in Vancouver B.C., so being so far away is kind of hard...I wish I could just hug him and tell him that he will be okay.) He goes to the specialist on March 30th to get an honest opinion/prognosis of what his care will be. They found a spot on the skin lining between the esophogus and the stomach, and there is a lymph node that looks questionable. I'm not sure what to expect, but his doctor told him that she has another patient with a very similar story, who is now on her 3rd year of being cancer free. I'm still sort of in shock and don't know what to expect, so you are the first person (besides family) I am talking to. My dad is 77, the hero of my life and kindest man you could ever meet, and I am hopeful that he will pull through and enjoy many great years of life ahead. I want you to know that you are in my thoughts, and from the sounds of it, you are a young woman with a strong fighting spirit who will get through this. I'm here. Sheila. Sheila1 Tue, 22 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT My son was diagnosed with inoperable stomach cancer in July 2004. We have been through several unsuccesful regimes of chemo, incuding Avastin+Cisplatin+Irinotecan, then Capecitabine+docetaxel We are currently deciding on a third chemo. One of the choices is the Folfox regiment, the other is Taxol. We need to make our decision by Mon. What chemo has been sucessful for you? Maria N. Maria n Sat, 30 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT My 33 year old son is battling stage 4 stomach cancer since July 2004. So far all treatments have been unsuccessful. It was just suggested he start on the Folfox regime which includes Oxaliplatin, Flucrouracil and Leucovorin.I believe this is the same treatment your wife was taking. It includes weekly IV, plus a pump for 48 hours. However, we have bee told no radiation. What specifically did they target with radiation? Was it the lymph nodes? Who is your doctor? Maria N. Maria n Sat, 30 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT Jay, Read the letter you posted...who was your dr at usc norris? Bob Hdhntr8bob Sun, 10 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hi Melody, I am 45 years old and have just been diagnosed with MALT Lymphoma. My GI doctor says he would do 90-100% stomach removal followed by chemo but believes the oncologist will suggest chemo only. Everything I read is so conflicting but seems to lean to trying just chemo first. How did you do with your stomach removal. Do you have any advice or suggestions. Thanks, Sandra Sandrac Wed, 20 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT I did very well with my partial gastrectomy. I had about 1/3 to 1/2 of my stomach removed. I do have reflux but that is it! My last 3 PET Scans and other tests have been fine. The doctors think they "got it all" but I know this type cancer can and does return. As for stomach removal, I would not hesitate to have this procedure again. I think it was the best choice for me, as radiation was not presentented to me in a very positive way. I don't regret my choice at all. Hope this helps. Remember, mine was Stage 1 and not through the stomach wall either. God be with you always! Melody Melodyd Fri, 22 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT This helps very much. I haven't seen the oncologist yet but based on what I've heard I'm leaning towards the stomach removal. My gastroenterologist believes it is contained in my stomach so hopefully he is right. Did you also have the MALT Lymphoma or something different? Do they say it always returns and can it then be treated again? Thanks so much and God Bless. Sandra Sandrac Mon, 25 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT Yes, I did have Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, specifically MALT type B. It is the very best cancer a person can have I am told as it it easiest to treat, and less deadly if caught early. As for recurrence, it is hard to pin the docs down on a %, but mine says 40-70% MAY have recurrance in the same or different area. Find out what stage you are in! That is imperative to know! I have put you on our family prayer list. Please write when you can, or if I can help in any way! Hugs and prayers, Melody Melodyd Tue, 26 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT Thanks Melody, That is exactly the type I have. I do not know what stage and I see an oncologist for the first time tomorrow. Looking through my medical records, docs suspected this nine months ago and never told me so I don't know how long I've had this but my Gastroenterologist thinks it is contained in my stomach although he's talking 90-100% stomach removal and chemo. I'll see what the oncologist has to say and will keep you posted if you don't mind. Thanks so much for your prayers. Sandra Sandrac Tue, 26 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT You are most welcome for the prayers! I believe in the power of prayer! Please do keep me posted. This is a beatable cancer so try to remain positive and keep the faith! I do well with what stomach I have had removed and you will too! There are so many resources out there! I do suggest you get a wig BEFORE you have chemo if you plan to use one, so it will be most like your real hair. Less shocking and easier to buy ahead of time for most people. Just a though for you! Keep me posted!!! I care! Hugs and more prayers, Melody Melodyd Tue, 26 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hello All, I am really at a loss as to how to even post but my wife who is 44 years old was recently diagnosed (2 months ago) with stomach cancer (adenocarcinoma) with linitis plastica. We were referred to a wonderful doctor at MD Anderson in Houston who scheduled a laparoscopy and discovered that the cancer had spread to other parts of the abdomen (peritoneum and abdominal cavity and suspected to the lymphnodes since they were enlarged). She then saw an oncologist who recommended chemotherapy. She is receiving chemo every week (six weeks on and two weeks off). Her strength is really low since she is unable to eat and is being fed through a feeding tube in her abdomen. I am at a loss for anything positive for outcomes. Has anyone heard of anyone surviving this? The doctor said that the chemo is for comfort and not a cure. Does anyone know of a good website to get more detailed information? I am in need of something positive to hold on to hope! Bill357 Mon, 22 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT Bill, I too have the same cancer as well as same metastasis. I'm sorry to say that I do not know of anyone who has survived such a late stage as we have. It seems that we can only hope for time and some degree of comfort. I feel very fortunate, I was diagnosed in Dec '03 and am still here and in relatively good health. I realize that tomorrow could be the day that this cancer hits an organ that will make me very sick but for now I am very thankful that I have been given more time than most. I know how overwhelmed the two of you must feel. There are miracles in the world. I hope the two of you will get to be one of those miracles. You are in my prayers. Reenee Wed, 24 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT How you doing, just wanted to say hi. I am 42 and suffering with the above, it came just out of the blue as for most of us it seems. I am still around since Janu this year diagnoses. I have gone under European regimen - 5fu - tabs; cisplatin and Epirubicin, every 3 weeks. This made my stomach very stretchy and I have been eating v well, in fact put 2 stone on. I hsve been on 24 aeroplane journeys in between chemos, travelling the world and just enjoying my life. Just because we have cancer it does not make us more mortal. We all have an allocated time and only god knows when it is. But we are privileged, as we can discover so much about spirituality; ourselves and enjoy the company of our loved ones to full extent. I am now on new chemo to try and blast the peritonial spread - its very little left but its there. We never know where and how this can blow, but I pray and believe in miracles and the power of our own spirits. So keep on going, as hard as it is. We can survirve this. Cancer is not an 'invador', it is our own cells going wrong, because they stopped listening to our brain function, in my opinion in that case we should try and do our best to use our spirit, which is always stronger then body to deal with this misfunction. Lots of thought and prayers for you. There are miracles, lets survive this. Tatiana Tutsi Wed, 24 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT Tatiana, good on you. You must be doing well. I don't think anyone capable of writing so positively when nauseated and in pain. I'm interested in knowing what new medications you are on. I had a partial gastrectomy,radiation and chose only to do Xeloda. So have not undergone any of the heavier Chemos, instead have concentrated on building my immune system up. However, am due for another Cat Scan soon, so will once again be faced with the decision to do more Chemo. I've had a total of three surgerys to remove tumors---the doctors are saying they don't do any good. I'm not so sure they are correct. I'm a year and a half out and still alive, so whatever!!! Keep that positive energy flowing. A strong believe in ones body and ability to survive can only be an asset. And YES miracles do happen. Reenee Thu, 25 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT My brother is on a feeding tube (peg) that was inserted surgically from the outside of his stomach because he cannot swallow anything at all. He says that the ensure/boost is making him really, really tired. I personally think it's the morphine...but what do I know? Has anyone ever had any experience with these issues? thanks in advance, patty Tupperwarepatty Thu, 20 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT My brother was diagnosed with stage IV stomach cancer last week. He cannot swallow anything including pills but he can crush them up and put them in the peg tube. Is anyone participating in a clinical trial right now? I found several that sounded promising but they all said that you have to be able to swallow a pill. Why would that be? Tupperwarepatty Thu, 20 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT HI all, my brother at age 40 was diagnosed with Inoperable , stage 4 stomach cancer. He is at vanderbilt and we love his doctor.He seems really knowledgeable and kind but we also understand that the best doc in us for stomach cancer is at md anderson. We were trying to figure out if md anderson truly is worth the exorbitant fees that they charge. Without insurance just have to put down a deposit....guess how much? $41,500. Has anyone been there? Any spectacular results? Tupperwarepatty Thu, 20 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT I, too, have gastric adenocarcinoma and it's been devistating to my family. I'm 58 years old and am just starting my second round of chemotherapy. The first round lasted about 4 months after surgery which was in January 2005. I just started another round a couple of weeks ago after my PET scan lit up like a Christmas tree, showing cancer in what was left of my stomach and other places in my abdomen. I'm Stage IV and my doctor is not very positive either. We just keep hoping that the supplements I take that are supposed to enhance chemo will do what they're supposed and do and will get this thing into remission. MD Anderson is one of the best cancer centers in the country, said to be on the leading edge. If I lived in Texas, that's where I'd be getting my treatment. Your wife is young and that gives her a good fighting chance, so hang in there. My daughter set up a Google Alert for me so that any news regarding gastric cancer that shows up on Google gets sent to me once a week or so. Some of it regards new drugs and some of it is useless information. None of the articles have found a miracle cure yet, unfortunately. Teri Terid Sat, 22 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Teri, Thank you for the encouraging words. When you were first diagnosed with stomach cancer, what stage was it? I ask this because you mention you are stage IV. My wife is also stage IV and they told her that she would never be considered as a surgical candidate. They are giving her chemo every week (cisplatin, taxotere and 5fu) six weeks on and two weeks off for palliative care. What kind of supplements are you taking. No one has mentioned anything about any recommended supplements. Do they seem to be helping any? Her doctor at MD Anderson (Dr. Pisters) was her surgeon and Dr. Phan is her Oncologist and they have been very good to us. We go back every 8 weeks for testing (lab, x-ray and cat scan). Her last testing revealed some stranding of the disease indicating that the cancer is continuing to spread but we pray that they will continue her chemo as long as her body is able to endure it. We know that God is the Great Physician and we know that Jackie is in His arms and He will sustain us. We wish you the best in your cancer journey and hope that you are still doing well. Bill Bill357 Sun, 23 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Lorene, Thank you for your story. Were you originally diagnosed at stage 4 or were you a surgical candidate? We praise God for the good news and we hope to follow in your steps. I hope you are continuing to feel well. Did they treat you with any chemo or any other supplement or treatment? Where were you treated for your cancer? We know that God is a loving and merciful God and he will see us through this and we pray that he give us the strength daily to be a good witness to our families and friends knowing that no matter the outcome, this chapter is not the last in the book. Thank you again for your encouragement and hope that you still continue to do well. Bill Bill357 Sun, 23 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Tatiana, Thank you for your message. Where in Europe are you living? We spent about 8 years in Europe while we were stationed in the military (Italy and Germany). Are you able to eat? My wife is unable to eat anything but soft foods so they have given her a feeding tube where she gets almost all of her nurishment. We too hope to travel but with chemo every week, we are pretty limited. We have our 25th anniversary coming up and hope to travel to celebrate that milestone. We know that God has blessed us with wonderful family and friends and are continuously amazed at His goodness knowing that people are praying for us and we cherish those prayers as they ascend to the throne of grace. We pray for a miracle and appreciate your testimony. God bless you in this journey and we also will be praying for you. Bill Bill357 Sun, 23 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hi Jay, Hope all is still well with you and yours...you were mentioning that you went to another provider because the other was outdated...how did you find out what were the up and coming drugs and which ones are outdated? thanks Tupperwarepatty Sun, 23 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hi Bill, When I was first diagnosed (and it took months to get a diagnosis) they didn't know what stage it was. When I was operated on, they discovered the cancer had already spread beyond the stomach and was starting little colonies throughout my abdomen. This made it stage IV. They removed 85% of my stomach and the little colonies they could see before starting chemo the first time. I'm now in chemo for the second time since a recent scan showed the cancer had returned, both to what was left of my stomach and more little colonies throughout the abdomen. I am taking taxotere only, once every three weeks. We'll do another scan in three weeks to see if it is making a difference. The supplements I am taking have not been recommended by any doctor, but are things we have researched or learned about from other people with similar cancers. They are supposed to enhance the chemo. Who knows? When you're in stage IV and your doctor talks about palliative care, you do anything. I drink avemar when I first get up in the morning. It's a powder mixed with water and is supposed to help with appetite and weight gain. It tastes awful but appears to be helping as I've gained three pounds in three weeks--quite a turnaround as I had been losing weight every week and had gone under 90 pounds. I take AHCC and melatonin, both of which are supposed to enhance the chemo. In addition, I take vitamins, CQ10, and Vit D. I feel pretty strong, am still driving and can walk a mile (if I feel like it). Like I said, my oncologist only recommended a multiple vitamin, but he knows what we're taking and hasn't any objections. My doctor did write an Rx for an antidepressant yesterday to stop me from weeping all the time. I can't wait for that one to kick in. I hope your wife is doing okay and that you are taking care of yourself as well. I know this whole trip has been hard on my husband, bless his heart. I don't know what I would do without him. Take care, Teri Terid Thu, 27 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Teri, Thank you for your response. My wife's care was tremendous. The doctor immediately ordered follow-up testing when she went in for the first time, having lost about 50 pounds and unable to eat. Test followed test until they discovered the cancer within about three or four days. We wre then referred to MD Anderson since none of the local hospitals would even consider seeing her. We were able to into MD Anderson within about three weeks and they were wonderful to her. The doctor (Pisters) done surgery the day after we saw him but was fearful that the cancer had already spread beyond the stomach. They did not remove any of her stomach since they felt that would just delay the start of her chemo and told us that she would never be a surgical candidate. They inserted a feeding tube into her abdomen and also a central venous catheter to aid in chemo. She isn't able to eat anything solid so her main source of nutrition is through the feeding tube that she uses every day. Our doctors have not recommended any vitamins and we have specifically asked. I will pass these along to my wife and maybe speak with the oncologist next time we see them. I hope things are well with you and you can continue to battle this disease. We will be praying for you and your family. If your husband would like to converse please encourage him to do so. Take care of yourself. Respectfully, Bill Bill357 Sat, 29 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Has anyone purchased cancer insurance before? can you recommend a good company? Tupperwarepatty Sun, 30 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT Dear Bill, So glad that you were able to get into see a good doctor. How is your wife doing since the surgery? What supplement is your wife on? ensure? boost? my brother is on something i have never heard of. He is losing so much weight. Are ya'll staying at MD Anderson for her treatments? Have they started the treatments yet? My brother is still there awaiting his second opinion tomorrow. We pray that he will be a candidate for a study or that the docs there will be able to offer some hope. The worst thing is when they give you no hope. The social worker and one of the oncologists at vanderbilt pretty much told my mother that chemo wouldn't help anyway and since he had no insurance just to keep him comfortable. Since it was outpatient they didn't have to treat him . I thought that was brutal!!! My family loves MD Anderson so far. Best of luck, Patty Tupperwarepatty Wed, 02 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT hi, i was just reading about your treatments and that they have eradicated a lot of your cancer. Is this treatment different from what we get in the US? Seems that you have had a lot of progress with your chemo. patty Tupperwarepatty Wed, 02 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT Patty, Thank you for your concern for my wife Jackie. She is doing okay even though she has had a couple of really bad weeks of chemo. She was not able to have surgery to remove the tumor or the stomach. Once they got inside her abdomen, they found the metastasis and pulled out and put the feeding tube and CVC for chemo use. She is being fed Boost (5 cans per day) and it has really made a difference. She has been able to maintain her weight fairly well. She had lost 50 pounds when she was first diagnosed. We were at MD Anderson where Jackie was seen by Dr Pisters (Surgical Oncologist) who done her surgery or attempted to do surgery and Dr. Phan (Medical Oncologist). Dr Phan orders the chemo regimen and we are having the chemo done in the Waco community where we live. Six weeks of chemo and the second week following, we go to MD Anderson for more x-rays, blood work and CT Scans. Which doctor are you seeing? I have also heard that Dr Evans is an excellent physician but I understand that he deals mostly with prostate cancer. Jackie was not a candidate for a clinical trial either. Between them not being able to remove the tumor and the fact that she required a blood transfusion during surgery automatically renders her ineligible for any trial. I understand your position when they simply give you no hope but a timeline only. Stay in touch and we will send a special prayer to the Lord on your behalf today! I can only say to keep your faith. Cancer may wreck havoc here on earth but a day will come that they WILL be cancer free!!!! Bill357 Fri, 04 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT hi Bill, Thanks for the heartfelt response. My brother is seeing Dr. Ajani who we were told was a great stomach cancer doctor. My brother did get into a clinical trial which he will start the chemo on tuesday. It is the end of phase one trial so he will definately get the new drug. We were told that you get much more carefully monitored care while in a study. He is not a surgery candidate. I really liked this doctors philosophy though...he said you could die tomorrow or in 5 years but so could I. My brother is very down and depressed. my family says he doesn't get out of bed except to go to the appointments. I worry about his lack of fight ...patty Tupperwarepatty Sun, 06 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT Patty, Sorry but I don't really know that much about Dr. Ajani other than seeing the name on the department listing. I do hope all is well with your brother and he is developing a better fighting spirit. My wife has really taught me that a persons mental state does a lot to help to improve their outlook and really goes a long way in making everyday count. The thing that we have to do is to understand that every day is a day to be treasured and we have to make the most of each day. The saying "Today is a gift and that's why it is called the present" means a lot more to me today that it did six months ago. I am a long term planner but Jackie's disease has taught me to simply focus on today and be greatful to God for today. Your brothers' doctor is right, we are not promised tomorrow. I am praying for you and your family and pray that God would bless you and I do pray that your brother would be comforted and/or healed by God and that He would grant your family peace, comfort and His presence. Take care and keep in touch. Bill Bill357 Mon, 07 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hi I just want to wish you all the best of luck and health.I lost the best mum you could wish for on 26th sept 2005 to this savage disease.She was so brave throughout her tretments but as she was diagnosed in stage 4 and it had spread to her lungs and peritonium it didn't really help.My mum was called Lynda and i can honestly say I am proud to be her daughter,she was also too young only 62.So keep positive and keep fighting all of you.Good luck. PAULA Paulastew Wed, 16 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hey Bill, This is Lorene. I haven't viewed this site for a long time. You asked if I was a surgical canidate. Yes, I had part of my stomach removed along with the greater and lesser omentum. Since that initial surgery, I've had my gallbladder removed and some peritoneal metastasis. My third surgery was essentially a lap. We again removed more peritonel mets. This has not at all been a conventional route of treatment, but my choice. I'm rather head strong and wasn't willing to go the more traditional route. However initially, I did do radiation and an oral med, Xeloda (5FU). I've taken many alternative supplements and I can't really say if any of them or all of them have contributed to me still being here. More than anything, I believe, that all the energy,prayers and love sent my way has helped. At present, I have some swollen nodes and am set up for a scan in a few weeks--I've been knocking around the notion of the more aggressive chemos but still not to keen on the idea. So Bill, GOOD LUCK to you and yours--there is no rhyme or reason to this cancer stuff, one simply gets what they get. Know there are many people who have you in their prayers. Reenee Mon, 26 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hi: I hope you are doing okay. My prayers are with you. My father just had his entire stomach removed and his spleen removed. I know first hand what you are going through right now. I hope you have good family. May god always bless you. Regards, Sandra M. Sandmo Sat, 15 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT Hi, I just found this site. I too was diagnosed with stomach cancer last October, had 3/4 of my stomach removed and 13 lymph nodes, one of which was cancerous..before I go further, please reply to this email so I know that it is going thru. Thanks. Emmalee Thu, 27 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT Hi Emma- How are you doing? My Mother has Stage 4 gastric cancer. She was diagnosed March 6 2006. She was scheduled for surgery to remoe her stomach at City of Hope in Calif. Surgery failed, and that was when they staged her with a 4. Giving her 6-8 months to live. Her cancer is called signet cell carcinoma. Please write back to me and let me know how you are doing. At this my Mother has a hard keeping food down, and is throwing up alot of bile. She does want to go through another round of Chemo. She wants a 2nd opinion from Mayo, Md Anderson, or the Clevecland Clinic. Take Care and you are in my prayers, Carla Carlaj Thu, 10 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT Hi all I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. It is just below the oesophagus and started growing up. It is stage 2 (whatever that means)....but they wont know until I have my operation on 8th January when they send off for biopsy what stage I am. They are talking "curative" surgery which for me is a big bonus. My liver, kidneys, spleen do not appear to be affected. However I am worried taht if I do go through having part of the stomach removed whether it will come back at some stage. There are no guarantees and I think English treatment could be different to USA ones. I am undergoing chemo first 9 weeks --- rest for 3 weeks....surgery...and then more chemo afterwards to "mop" up.....Any thoughts? Vivian Vivian5 Fri, 01 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT Hi, Teri.I came across your message from a year ago and was very inspired by your approach.  How are you doing now?  Do you feel that the Taxotere helped you?  My father's oncologist has recommended taxotere and I am very hesitant because of the side effects.  I pray you are well and send my best to you.Irena Irena Wed, 27 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT  On 12/3/2003 Lou Ann M. wrote:I was diagnosed with stomach cancer in June 2003. This was very devastating news for my husband and I as I am only 45 years old. My husband of two years and I have five children and five grandchildren between us and are very much looking forward to watching them grow up so we are not giving up hope. I had half of my stomach removed and although they got all of the tumor they found cells in 6 out of 9 lymph nodes. I just finished chemo last week and have been through five weeks of radiation. I will be tested within the next couple of weeks to find out where I stand. I would like to here from anyone else who has this type of cancer and share information with them. From what I have learned this type of cancer is not common for my age and gender and I have been told that this is not an easy type to cure. Hi my name is judy            my sister was diagonosed on May 24th of 2006. they took her whole stomach and it was also in esofagust.and also her lymphnodes it sounds like yours isn't as bad thank god.all you can do is hope and pray and we all will for you.My sister was complaining of stomach pain for three years  they did a scope and said they never seen anything.. But i can't undersrand why they didn't.she was 46 years old and they told her the same it was not common for that age or gender.I wish you all the best and i hope you beat this with all my heart                                                   judyb  Judyb Sun, 14 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT my husband is 54 and was diagnosed with ge juncture adenocarcinoma of the stomach -- we are at the same place you are -  5 weeks of radiation with 4 chemo treatments done and 2 more to go.  they decided to do 2 more chemos to make it 6 in all due to an inconclusive pet scan - they think they see scar tissue but they are doing more chemo to be sure.  he had 60% of stomach and 10% of esophagus removed....................hang in there..............my thoughts are with you.............. Madonnaatt Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT hi, jon b.my mother was discover with stomach cancer last weeck and she had the surgery done. the doctor  sad to us that she has 2 mor years to live she is in stage 4 all her stomach was removed and the intestines and the wal of abdomen are afected. they try to do radiology to her and chemioterapy. my question, because i live in florida but my mom is in romania is; what doctor you and your whife went and if you can tell me now haw is your  whife . i realy apreciate if you could rite back. i am very disperate , i do not want to lose her.thankyou melania Melania Sun, 13 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT What time of cancer do you have? dee53 Sat, 08 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT HI, I am a 32 yr old female, was diagnosed with stomach cancer stage 4 on June of this year. at that time, they believed that it could be an ovarian cancer, only during surgery they discoverd that I had stomach cancer. they removed my reproductive system and staged, they only found cancer in this area and in the stomach. I was then scheduled to have surgery with Dr. Mann, to remove my stomach on July of this year. by this time my  cancer had spread to some lymph nodes, and to my small intestine. on the day of the second surgery they removed my stomach, the nodes, part of the pancreas, and the spleen.  during surgery I had chemo that was poured directly into the stomach cavity.  after surgery, I had a feeding tube connected to my small intestine to facilitate nutrition, unfortunatly it was hard for me to get anything in, so before leaving the hospital I had a Picc line placed and I am getting TPN. I have not been able to eat much even though they cant find anything wrong with my new digestive system.  I need to get rid of the TPN, and then the feeding tube. I need suggestions, I try eating solids but they feel so heavy, my intestines are always hurting, and I always feel like trowing up.  I try eating soups, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I am doing chemo I have a constant infusion of 5FU 24/7  and every 3 weeks I get another 2 different chemos. I also need suggestions to get inspired to do exercise or to walk around, since I feel so week with the chemo that I just dont feel like doing anything.  I have a great support system, and I am looking forward to being a survivor, my first CTscan came out clean of cancer, my next one is in Nov. and I am hopping for it to be the same as the last one. I have a 5 yr old girl that keeps me on my toes, all I need is to eat and not waste away. thank you for your suggestions Vitae Vitae Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 10/21/2007 Vitae wrote:HI, I am a 32 yr old female, was diagnosed with stomach cancer stage 4 on June of this year. at that time, they believed that it could be an ovarian cancer, only during surgery they discoverd that I had stomach cancer. they removed my reproductive system and staged, they only found cancer in this area and in the stomach. I was then scheduled to have surgery with Dr. Mann, to remove my stomach on July of this year. by this time my  cancer had spread to some lymph nodes, and to my small intestine. on the day of the second surgery they removed my stomach, the nodes, part of the pancreas, and the spleen.  during surgery I had chemo that was poured directly into the stomach cavity.  after surgery, I had a feeding tube connected to my small intestine to facilitate nutrition, unfortunatly it was hard for me to get anything in, so before leaving the hospital I had a Picc line placed and I am getting TPN. I have not been able to eat much even though they cant find anything wrong with my new digestive system.  I need to get rid of the TPN, and then the feeding tube. I need suggestions, I try eating solids but they feel so heavy, my intestines are always hurting, and I always feel like trowing up.  I try eating soups, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I am doing chemo I have a constant infusion of 5FU 24/7  and every 3 weeks I get another 2 different chemos. I also need suggestions to get inspired to do exercise or to walk around, since I feel so week with the chemo that I just dont feel like doing anything.  I have a great support system, and I am looking forward to being a survivor, my first CTscan came out clean of cancer, my next one is in Nov. and I am hopping for it to be the same as the last one. I have a 5 yr old girl that keeps me on my toes, all I need is to eat and not waste away. thank you for your suggestions VitaeHave you had any luck in finding things to eat.  my boyfriend also had his stomach removed in september '07.  he has a hard time eating too. everything gives him bad cramps.  he has a feeding tube but doesn't use it for the same reason.  he is down to 110 pounds now.  kap715 Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 10/30/2005 Tupperwarepatty wrote:Has anyone purchased cancer insurance before? can you recommend a good company? Hi ,I am new to this site , dut i am also looking for cancer insurance for my father,  did you find anything , please help hayk56 Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hi My dad just got diagnosed with stomach cancer that has spread to the liver, the doctor said it is usually terminal because it has spread to the liver he cant kwwp some food down some food he can he starts radiation and chemo this week, I was just wondering how sick do you get from chemo? and Radiation just wondering did yours spread to the liver too or did they catch it in time? I know how you feel my dad is only 59 yrs old and has grandchildren he wants to see grow up we dont know how much time he has but I pray it is a yr or longer, Well I will pray for you Jennifer jennymack Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 8/24/2005 Reenee wrote:Bill, I too have the same cancer as well as same metastasis. I'm sorry to say that I do not know of anyone who has survived such a late stage as we have. It seems that we can only hope for time and some degree of comfort. I feel very fortunate, I was diagnosed in Dec '03 and am still here and in relatively good health. I realize that tomorrow could be the day that this cancer hits an organ that will make me very sick but for now I am very thankful that I have been given more time than most. I know how overwhelmed the two of you must feel. There are miracles in the world. I hope the two of you will get to be one of those miracles. You are in my prayers.  scdaughter Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 10/21/2007 Vitae wrote:HI, I am a 32 yr old female, was diagnosed with stomach cancer stage 4 on June of this year. at that time, they believed that it could be an ovarian cancer, only during surgery they discoverd that I had stomach cancer. they removed my reproductive system and staged, they only found cancer in this area and in the stomach. I was then scheduled to have surgery with Dr. Mann, to remove my stomach on July of this year. by this time my  cancer had spread to some lymph nodes, and to my small intestine. on the day of the second surgery they removed my stomach, the nodes, part of the pancreas, and the spleen.  during surgery I had chemo that was poured directly into the stomach cavity.  after surgery, I had a feeding tube connected to my small intestine to facilitate nutrition, unfortunatly it was hard for me to get anything in, so before leaving the hospital I had a Picc line placed and I am getting TPN. I have not been able to eat much even though they cant find anything wrong with my new digestive system.  I need to get rid of the TPN, and then the feeding tube. I need suggestions, I try eating solids but they feel so heavy, my intestines are always hurting, and I always feel like trowing up.  I try eating soups, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I am doing chemo I have a constant infusion of 5FU 24/7  and every 3 weeks I get another 2 different chemos. I also need suggestions to get inspired to do exercise or to walk around, since I feel so week with the chemo that I just dont feel like doing anything.  I have a great support system, and I am looking forward to being a survivor, my first CTscan came out clean of cancer, my next one is in Nov. and I am hopping for it to be the same as the last one. I have a 5 yr old girl that keeps me on my toes, all I need is to eat and not waste away. thank you for your suggestions VitaeI am so sorry to hear of your stomach cancer - but I felt that I needed to send you some encouraging words.My son (who was 35) was diagnosed with stomach cancer (Stage III Adenocarcinoma) in June, 2006.  He went through 9 weeks of chemo (5/FU 24/7 - epirubicen, etoposide, and cisplatin), then he had surgery and they removed his entire stomach and 48 lymph nodes.  22 of the 48 had cancer cells.  His spleen, pancreas, liver were all clean.  After surgery, he went through another 6 weeks of chemo (same regime) and then 35 treatments of radiation.  Every day before the radiation, they would give him a shot in the stomach (can't remember the name of the medicine) but it was to protect his vital organs from all the radiation.  He lost 60 pounds during all this time and was very, very sick.  He had terrible bouts with "dumping syndrome" and terrible stomach cramps.  He had a feeding tube, but was not able to use it because it refluxed back up into his throat.  After his surgery and during the second round of chemo, he got a staph infection and almost died from staph.  He really went through hell!!!!The good news is ---------- he is almost 2 years out now and doing really well.  He has gained back 22 pounds that he lost and his color is great and he is feeling really well.  Probably not perfect - but compared the last year - great!!!!!  He is working full-time (has 3 small children and expecting a 4th one in September).   They had said he would be sterile - but what do doctors know - right?He has CT scans every 3 months and so far everything has been good.  He is eating everything again - even drinking Dr. Pepper's.  He pours them over ice to remove some of the carbonated water and fizz....he still can't drink beer (and he loved it before) but he is alive and well......Praise God!!!I just wanted you to know that there is hope, you can beat this thing, so hang in there.  Just know that each and every day will make you stronger and better.  It just takes time.  My son had an awful time with diarehea, but that is better now also.  He couldn't eat beef at first, but is eating beef now.  He still has some cramping when he eats, but that is also getting much better.  He eats constantly - trying to gain weight.I will pray for you - you ask God to heal you and then believe in that healing and just know that God gives us what we ask for when we believe.God bless you in your struggles but don't give up or give in.Patti Bond  Pabbygirl43 Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT I also seem to be a rare case:  25 year old white female with stage IV stomach cancer... has metasticized to my abdomen and lungs.  I am going to the Mayo Clinic Tuesday.  My child turned 5 months old today and my prognosis with treatment is one year.  But, I believe in God and I know that He dictates my prognosis, no one else.  I have been being seen in the state of NC at REX, UNC Chapel Hill, and Duke.   However, they have not begun any treatments for me and it's time that I go to a place that will.  Keep updated what you find out.  ~Amanda oceandreamscofc Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hope you find a doctor that will treat you, my 26 year old daughter was diagnosed with stage IV stoamach cancer(spread to abdominal cavity only) in October of 2006, she has the diffuse cell (signet cell) type, she has been treated with chemo only and keeps bouncing back, not saying it has'nt been difficult but she thinks it's worth it so far.  Hope you can find a doctor you like we definitley did!Teri (in MN) rachMN Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hi to all with stomach Cancer,I was diagnosed with stage 1 stomach cancer on August 20, 2008 and had my entire stomach, lymph nodes around my stomach removed on September 24, 2008.  I went from 190 pounds to 159 which is my current weight and still struggle to get enough nourishment.  I take a lot of vitamins, calcium with vitamin D, vitamin B12, Flax seed oil, vegetable enzymes and drink Natures Tea ( recommended by my Doctor).  I have a very active life but still struggle with my energy levels.  I walk a couple of miles every two days but found that doing anymore exercise makes me lose weight. My dietitian suggested that I increase my food intake but I feel that I am maxed out on that as I am already eating all day all every two hours.  This week I am trying protein supplements, ice cream, and grinding my own veg and fruit juices.  I have very little to complain about as I did not have to have chemo or radiation as I continue to test negative for any cancer but my doctor warns me that it may return.  I pray nightly for all that are suffering from cancer and as much as I can please feel free to ask me anything regarding my recovery.  yours in prayer.  Tvion Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 5/15/2008 Tvion wrote:Hi to all with stomach Cancer,I was diagnosed with stage 1 stomach cancer on August 20, 2008 and had my entire stomach, lymph nodes around my stomach removed on September 24, 2008.  I went from 190 pounds to 159 which is my current weight and still struggle to get enough nourishment.  I take a lot of vitamins, calcium with vitamin D, vitamin B12, Flax seed oil, vegetable enzymes and drink Natures Tea ( recommended by my Doctor).  I have a very active life but still struggle with my energy levels.  I walk a couple of miles every two days but found that doing anymore exercise makes me lose weight. My dietitian suggested that I increase my food intake but I feel that I am maxed out on that as I am already eating all day all every two hours.  This week I am trying protein supplements, ice cream, and grinding my own veg and fruit juices.  I have very little to complain about as I did not have to have chemo or radiation as I continue to test negative for any cancer but my doctor warns me that it may return.  I pray nightly for all that are suffering from cancer and as much as I can please feel free to ask me anything regarding my recovery.  yours in prayer.   rachMN Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hello, and I just joined this wonderful site via another friend from dailystrength.com.  I' m a stomach cancer survivor and had my stomach removed almost 6 years ago.  I also did chemo/radiation (both at same time-together) and am happy to say back to my life prior cancer.  My old job - just started back p/t and recently f/t time now!  I'm strong, healthy and eat everything.  Only downside is I will always be anemic, but I work with that.  Any way I can help, don't hesitate to get ahold of me, ok?  Eat often, if even little bits and keep as positive as possible.Talk soonYour new friendMillie  missnewf11 Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hi Millie, so glad to hear of your improving health.  A few questions please.  What stage were you diagnosed at?  Did you have any cancer in lymph nodes?  Was part of your esophagus removed?  I just lost my husband February 22, 2008 to stage IV stomach cancer (three out of six positive lymph nodes).  He lived for three years but quality of life was not the best.  I guess I have so many questions like what if, why didn't I....etc.  Glad to hear of a long term stomach cancer survivor.  Thanks,Diane Anniedips Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 5/19/2008 Anniedips wrote:Hi Millie, so glad to hear of your improving health.  A few questions please.  What stage were you diagnosed at?  Did you have any cancer in lymph nodes?  Was part of your esophagus removed?  I just lost my husband February 22, 2008 to stage IV stomach cancer (three out of six positive lymph nodes).  He lived for three years but quality of life was not the best.  I guess I have so many questions like what if, why didn't I....etc.  Glad to hear of a long term stomach cancer survivor.  Thanks,DianeHi Diane; I'm so sorry to hear of your husbands passing.  My love and prayers go out to you.  I believe I was stage 3 or 4.  I honestly just sort of "zoned out" and just accepted what was to be, since I felt it was now out of my hands.  I just put all my faith and trust in God and just rode that amazing roller coaster so to speak.  I do believe part of my esophagus was removed, but mostly since I had my gallblader removed about two years prior, so they did something to the esophagus so I would never have heart burn... (total bonus).  9 out of 12 lymph nodes were affected, and one was a centimeter and a half in size.  One thing I notice after reading alot of entries here is that others seem to do the chemo and once treatment is completed, they do radiation or visa versa.  My treatments of chemo / radiation were TOGETHER.  At the same time.  Hmmmmm ... talk about agressive treatment, but I really believe that's what ultimatelly saved me.  Who knows hu?  Signet ring is such a juvenile and agressive cancer that the medical field is just learning about.  I'm just so thankful to be alive and living almost 100% healthy again.  I'm anemic, but learning to work with that.  Keep in touch ...  once again, I'm so sorry to hear of your husband and his passing.  I've noticed that many people who are diagnosed with stomach cancer have had IBS (Irritable bowel Syndrom) and the Canadian Cancer Society told me that those suffering with IBS are often misdiagnosed with IBS but in fact have stomach cancer ~ since the symptoms are almost identical.  Thus, that's why Stomach Cancer is often a "silent killer".  I almost fell into that catagory as well.  Two weeks later would have been a death sentence.  Wow.Hope to hear from you again soon ...God bless you xoxoxoxMillie   missnewf11 Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hi Millie:  You must be one of the .lucky ones to get an early diagnosis before it spread? (stage I  or II?)  My daughter has stage IV spread to the abdomen and has been getting chemo for 18months , the doctors say that with stage IV surgery doesn't cure it so we opted to not put her through that.  We also found out that the cancer in our family is genetically acquired and I  found out 2 mohts ago that I also am at risk for getting it so I may have a prophylactic total gastrectomy in the future , am expecting my biopsy results this week.  Glad they caught yours in time!  Did they test you for the CDH1 gene too?    Teri rachMN Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 5/19/2008 rachMN wrote:Hi Millie:  You must be one of the .lucky ones to get an early diagnosis before it spread? (stage I  or II?)  My daughter has stage IV spread to the abdomen and has been getting chemo for 18months , the doctors say that with stage IV surgery doesn't cure it so we opted to not put her through that.  We also found out that the cancer in our family is genetically acquired and I  found out 2 mohts ago that I also am at risk for getting it so I may have a prophylactic total gastrectomy in the future , am expecting my biopsy results this week.  Glad they caught yours in time!  Did they test you for the CDH1 gene too?    TeriHi Teri;Thank you for your wonderful message.  Yes, I do honestly feel blessed to be a survivor of almost 6 years.  I believe I was stage 3 or 4.  So sorry to hear about your daughter.  I'll send my prayers for all of you xoxoox.I had the genetic thing - forget the name of it - but looks like a worm.  It's in our family.  I hope your biopsy results go well.  But you will have to keep an eye on your symptoms all the time ok?  Look forward to talking again soon....Take care,your new friendMillie xoxoxox  :)  missnewf11 Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT my wife is 34 , maried 3 yrs, have a 2yr old, and advanced stage IV stomach cancer that has spread to her lungs pretty bad,,, I would look into NCI.org or .net and look up biological therapy or immune or immunotherapies,  also NCCAM i think,, for alternative medicines,,, green tea says to help,,, some look at this as a curse but we look aat it as a blesing,, it has made us live more fuller lives and has brought us and our families closer,, we HOPE for the best but PREPARE for the worst,,,, there are lots of options out htere under clinical trials,, keep investigating,,,,call the national cancer institute,,, they have lots of info and are wonderfurl people,,, giovanni & Patricia Giovanni Sat, 31 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 10/18/2004 Jay B. wrote:Hi: I'm writing on behalf of my wife. She is now 46 years old. She was diagnosed with stomach cancer in Feb. of 2003. She had surgery to remove 2/3 of her stomach. Unfortunately, the cancer was located in the lower quadrant and it had permeated the stomach wall. It was discovered late due to an ulcer on top of the tumor. She had a endoscopy done in November of 2003 which found the ulcer. Biopsies done at that time came back negative. They did not reveal any cancer. The followup in February, however, did reveal the tumor. At the time of the surgery (March '03), the cancer had spread to 7 of 15 lymph nodes in the stomach area. She was staged at a 3-4. She had radiation treatment 5 days a week for 5 weeks. And at the same time, was undergoing intensive Chemotherapy. She was getting Oxylaplatin every two weeks in an IV drip, and 5FU on a 24/7 pump. She too did not fit the "norm" for gastric cancer. It is prevalent in Asian Males over the age of 50. She is obviously female, 45 years old, and caucasian. Go figure that one out! And the good news.......She went into remission last November, and is still in remission now! She has her blood markers checked every 6 weeks, and CT Scans done every 3 months. I believe that her remarkable turnaround, was due to a very aggressive chemo, and radiation regimen, prescribed by the Doctor who gave us the 2nd opinion. We are with Kaiser Permanente, but the Doctor who prescribed her treatment is a leading Oncologist at the USC Norris Cancer Center. He has been a life saver for us, in my opinion. There is hope for you. I didn't think my wife had a chance of beating this at all, in the beginning. But I sure was glad to be wrong. Jay B.Please,,, do you have the doctors inf for a second opinion for my 34 yr old wife,,, my email is --Message edited by CancerCompass staff. For personal protection, email address and phone number removed. Consider private reply. Please review CancerCompass Member Guidelines at http://www.cancercompass.com/common/guidelines.html--our phone is  my name is giovanni my wife is patricia adn our 2 yr old is giovanna,,,,,  Giovanni Sat, 31 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT giovanni- just wanted to contact you. my name is leigh a 39 yr old, married woman with a 2 year old and 5 year old. i was dignosed march 1, 2008 with stage 4 stomach cancer. i am getting treated at md anderson and having great results on a clinical trial. i will win-and send light and love, encouragement, and strength to you and your wife. i will beat this-i have no options. md anderson is helping me do this. i'm always open to talking, discussing, and know you are not alone. leigh leighinaspen Sun, 08 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT hi millie my name is leigh and i'm surviving stage 4 stomach cancer diagnosed march 1, 2008. i'm a young mother with no genetic link to any disease in my family. it is so nice to hear of you. i'm on aggressive chemo and clinical trial at md anderson--showing great results on my ct scans. headed to houston tomorrow for round 5. i'm beating this and will be cancer-free. you let me know my success can and is happening. leighinaspen Sun, 08 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 6/8/2008 leighinaspen wrote:hi millie my name is leigh and i'm surviving stage 4 stomach cancer diagnosed march 1, 2008. i'm a young mother with no genetic link to any disease in my family. it is so nice to hear of you. i'm on aggressive chemo and clinical trial at md anderson--showing great results on my ct scans. headed to houston tomorrow for round 5. i'm beating this and will be cancer-free. you let me know my success can and is happening. hello Leigh;Thank you for your wonderfl email....  YES - you "CAN and WILL beat this.  I have and it's almost 6 years cancer free.  I had signet ring stomach cancer and it's apparantly 1 in a billion to survive my type of cancer.  So, if "I" can beat this - you can to.  Don't waste precious energy and strength worrying about things.  Just "accept" what is and keep a positive attitude and experience everything with open eyes.  The less worry - the better.  Trust me .....  Keeping calm is a big part.....  Keep in touch ....  sending prayers your way and hope to hear your also a survivor ....  maybe in the future we can meet up and celebrate together!  "CANCER CAN BE BEATEN" .....  XOXOXMillie  missnewf11 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT hi millie- back from round 5 chemo and got great results on my ct scan. i know i can and am beating this. for me, my babies-a 2 yr old and 5 year old , and my wonderful husband. have chemo on till monday-hanging strong-full of light and love. you inspire me--thank you-xoxox leigh leighinaspen Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 6/8/2008 leighinaspen wrote:giovanni- just wanted to contact you. my name is leigh a 39 yr old, married woman with a 2 year old and 5 year old. i was dignosed march 1, 2008 with stage 4 stomach cancer. i am getting treated at md anderson and having great results on a clinical trial. i will win-and send light and love, encouragement, and strength to you and your wife. i will beat this-i have no options. md anderson is helping me do this. i'm always open to talking, discussing, and know you are not alone. leighalmost identical to my wife,, has your cancer spread,, where to,,,do you have any symptoms,,, pain,,, my wifes has spread to her lungs,,, she coughs a lot ,,,,, she has also lost lots of weight,, its getting worst,,, most of her hair has came out but 2 wks ago we shaved her head adn the smaller hairs aare still there,,,we have not yet gotten a second PT scan to see how the chemo is working our phone is--Message edited by CancerCompass staff. For personal protection, phone number removed. Consider private reply. Please review CancerCompass Member Guidelines at http://www.cancercompass.com/common/guidelines.html-- ... our dr is not teling us much,,, i read most people with what she has average 7mths to 1yr,,, we are going on 6mths adn she seems fine ,,, a llittle lighter but all is still good,,, we are strong adn she is young,,, so we cant wait till its gone to get our lives back to normal Giovanni Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 6/13/2008 leighinaspen wrote:hi millie- back from round 5 chemo and got great results on my ct scan. i know i can and am beating this. for me, my babies-a 2 yr old and 5 year old , and my wonderful husband. have chemo on till monday-hanging strong-full of light and love. you inspire me--thank you-xoxox leighHi Leighinaspen! Just wondering if you could share what kind of results your ct scan showed. Thanks. saucey Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hi - Its' wonderfull that you received GREAT results on you CT scan!!!.  My chemo and radiation plan was successfull in removing a tumor the size of an egg.last December.  Chemo can be tough for some but It was not for me, going three different chemo regimines along with radiation.  I'm 71 years old and it is wonderfull in this fight when we have success.  God bless and Good Luck Arnold Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT look up [g.ohsawa] on the net, buy his books and read it. i reed it and now on my way to a recovery, i have gastric stomach cancer which has spread to my kidney bladder lower intestine and some other areas. doctors said its incureable i reed g.ohsawa's books who has cure so many people with all type of disease and now im nearly fully recovered. tips on eating, no sugar or sugary foods, fats, oil, meat, or cand foods because these foods cause cancer to devellop very quickly, eat organic foods veggies brown rice sesame seed, for more rescipe look at g.ohsawa's teaching on how to eat to beat cancer.you can also used one large ginger crush it lightly and wrap it litely in a cloth the boil up 2 litres of water put the cloth of ginger in the boiled water then used a clean small towl soak it in the ginger water put on some water proof thick gloves take the towl out twist asmuch water out as possible roll the towl in have then slowly lay the towl on the tumar area until you feel its no longer hot then put the towl back in the ginger water again. repeat this for 25 minutes three times a day. make sure u keep a lid on the bowl or it cold get cold fast, used a new ginger ever day. good luck  khanny Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT i lsao have stomach cancer docs cant do anything because of the spread of the cancer, i had my first chemmo and was verry sick after a hard decission i made my mind not to have chemmo and follow on [g.ohsawa] his method of beating and preventing cancer i now feel so much better and on my way to a recoverry. look up the net for g.ohsawa buy his book read it and find out how it can help you. tips on eating no fats sugar or sugary foods including fruits no meats or cand foods. these food has the pottential to make cancer spread rapidly, eat organic foods veggies brown rice sesame seed lil salt, you can find out rescipes from g.ohsawa's books. good luck  khanny Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 12/3/2007 kap715 wrote: On 10/21/2007 Vitae wrote:HI, I am a 32 yr old female, was diagnosed with stomach cancer stage 4 on June of this year. at that time, they believed that it could be an ovarian cancer, only during surgery they discoverd that I had stomach cancer. they removed my reproductive system and staged, they only found cancer in this area and in the stomach. I was then scheduled to have surgery with Dr. Mann, to remove my stomach on July of this year. by this time my  cancer had spread to some lymph nodes, and to my small intestine. on the day of the second surgery they removed my stomach, the nodes, part of the pancreas, and the spleen.  during surgery I had chemo that was poured directly into the stomach cavity.  after surgery, I had a feeding tube connected to my small intestine to facilitate nutrition, unfortunatly it was hard for me to get anything in, so before leaving the hospital I had a Picc line placed and I am getting TPN. I have not been able to eat much even though they cant find anything wrong with my new digestive system.  I need to get rid of the TPN, and then the feeding tube. I need suggestions, I try eating solids but they feel so heavy, my intestines are always hurting, and I always feel like trowing up.  I try eating soups, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I am doing chemo I have a constant infusion of 5FU 24/7  and every 3 weeks I get another 2 different chemos. I also need suggestions to get inspired to do exercise or to walk around, since I feel so week with the chemo that I just dont feel like doing anything.  I have a great support system, and I am looking forward to being a survivor, my first CTscan came out clean of cancer, my next one is in Nov. and I am hopping for it to be the same as the last one. I have a 5 yr old girl that keeps me on my toes, all I need is to eat and not waste away. thank you for your suggestions VitaeHave you had any luck in finding things to eat.  my boyfriend also had his stomach removed in september '07.  he has a hard time eating too. everything gives him bad cramps.  he has a feeding tube but doesn't use it for the same reason.  he is down to 110 pounds now.    Hello...this is the first time on this site, and my husband has had his total stomach and partial esophagus removed on june 16 2008.  Since diagnosis (jan.2008 he weighed 175 lbs.) , he now weighs 108 lbs. he has lost about 12-15 pounds since the surgery, but his weight has been stable for about 3 weeks now. Did your boyfriend gain any more weight back and if he did how long  did it take canadianmary Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 8/28/2008 canadianmary wrote: On 12/3/2007 kap715 wrote: On 10/21/2007 Vitae wrote:HI, I am a 32 yr old female, was diagnosed with stomach cancer stage 4 on June of this year. at that time, they believed that it could be an ovarian cancer, only during surgery they discoverd that I had stomach cancer. they removed my reproductive system and staged, they only found cancer in this area and in the stomach. I was then scheduled to have surgery with Dr. Mann, to remove my stomach on July of this year. by this time my  cancer had spread to some lymph nodes, and to my small intestine. on the day of the second surgery they removed my stomach, the nodes, part of the pancreas, and the spleen.  during surgery I had chemo that was poured directly into the stomach cavity.  after surgery, I had a feeding tube connected to my small intestine to facilitate nutrition, unfortunatly it was hard for me to get anything in, so before leaving the hospital I had a Picc line placed and I am getting TPN. I have not been able to eat much even though they cant find anything wrong with my new digestive system.  I need to get rid of the TPN, and then the feeding tube. I need suggestions, I try eating solids but they feel so heavy, my intestines are always hurting, and I always feel like trowing up.  I try eating soups, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I am doing chemo I have a constant infusion of 5FU 24/7  and every 3 weeks I get another 2 different chemos. I also need suggestions to get inspired to do exercise or to walk around, since I feel so week with the chemo that I just dont feel like doing anything.  I have a great support system, and I am looking forward to being a survivor, my first CTscan came out clean of cancer, my next one is in Nov. and I am hopping for it to be the same as the last one. I have a 5 yr old girl that keeps me on my toes, all I need is to eat and not waste away. thank you for your suggestions VitaeHave you had any luck in finding things to eat.  my boyfriend also had his stomach removed in september '07.  he has a hard time eating too. everything gives him bad cramps.  he has a feeding tube but doesn't use it for the same reason.  he is down to 110 pounds now.    Hello...this is the first time on this site, and my husband has had his total stomach and partial esophagus removed on june 16 2008.  Since diagnosis (jan.2008 he weighed 175 lbs.) , he now weighs 108 lbs. he has lost about 12-15 pounds since the surgery, but his weight has been stable for about 3 weeks now. Did your boyfriend gain any more weight back and if he did how long  did it takeHe did gain a few pounds back but he got sick again and started retaining fluid in his bowel.  He finally went to the emergency room in December and we found out that the cancer had spread and he passed away the week before christmas.  I wish you and your husband luck.  Keep in touch.   kap715 Sat, 30 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT