Stomach cancer at 25

Hello, dear people… 

I never thought I would be one to join this forum, but here I am. I have been diagnosed with stomach cancer about 2 months ago and yesterday I got out of the hospital, where I have been admitted for 2 weeks. I had total gastrectomy (stomach removal) and D2 lymphadenectomy. It will still take some time to find out the stage of my cancer but it worries me a lot knowing that even though I underwent these horrible surgeries (plus complications) and I’m in so much pain, I still don’t know what to expect from now on. I still don’t know the stage nor how much time I have left on earth. I don’t know what to expect and I don’t know anything about my career or future anymore. Is anyone able to tell me, how do you cope with such a harsh diagnosis and go around day by day?Is it possible to have a long life if the cancer was caught early? How badly does chemotherapy affect you and your well being (in case I might have to do it once they figure out the stage)?  Sorry for bombarding you with all this information, I truly wish you all recover and stay strong through such a difficult period. Please let me know if you have any questions that I could answer. 

Parents
  • Undoubtedly, your cancer has effected you at least for now in terms of work and life but you can always get “back on that horse” when you are able to. It’s never too late to think about future you and this experience will make you stronger. I think it’s very promising that you’ve had a gastrectomy (stomach removal) and D2 lymphadenectomy. I am hopeful you will recover and I think you should be too. You can only wait for now I hope the wait isn’t too hard on you and wish you all the luck I can give. If results are “bad” then remember you can still keep on for years and years with a relatively normal life it’s not all doom and darkness.

    Remember a lot of online statistics are heavily out of date by 5 to 10 years and cancer treatment and control has developed sooo well in that time. Plus you have an advantage with your age. You just got unlucky that’s all. It will take time to process any bad news as I’m sure you know and that’s okay as long as you don’t let yourself spiral down into sadness for the long term (it’s okay and even good to be sad now though). Eventually you need to reach a point of acceptance where you can just say it is what it is. Read lots of non fiction about acceptance, philosophy, etc. Reach out to people when you can. These will help you. 

Reply
  • Undoubtedly, your cancer has effected you at least for now in terms of work and life but you can always get “back on that horse” when you are able to. It’s never too late to think about future you and this experience will make you stronger. I think it’s very promising that you’ve had a gastrectomy (stomach removal) and D2 lymphadenectomy. I am hopeful you will recover and I think you should be too. You can only wait for now I hope the wait isn’t too hard on you and wish you all the luck I can give. If results are “bad” then remember you can still keep on for years and years with a relatively normal life it’s not all doom and darkness.

    Remember a lot of online statistics are heavily out of date by 5 to 10 years and cancer treatment and control has developed sooo well in that time. Plus you have an advantage with your age. You just got unlucky that’s all. It will take time to process any bad news as I’m sure you know and that’s okay as long as you don’t let yourself spiral down into sadness for the long term (it’s okay and even good to be sad now though). Eventually you need to reach a point of acceptance where you can just say it is what it is. Read lots of non fiction about acceptance, philosophy, etc. Reach out to people when you can. These will help you. 

Children
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