Awaiting MDT plan for stomach cancer

After a couple of scans and investigations I finally had an endoscopy which revealed a stomach ulcer. Ten days later I was recalled to be told the biopsy had detected cancerous cells. Since then I have had a laparoscopy 16 days ago and a PET scan last week. The MDT are to report back to me with a plan. This waiting has been the worse part. 
Helpful tips on how to deal with chemo - thank you. A lot to take in. 

  • Hello Allegra49.  As you say, it is a lot to take in.  I expect your head is in a bit of a whirl, which is all perfectly normal.  I had to have chemo, and it was nowhere near as bad as I thought it would be.  I didn't get any sickness because I was given medication to counter-act that.  One of the tips I can give you is dealing with hair loss:  Your scalp might feel a bit delicate without any hair to protect it, so I invested in some satin pillow cases, which was very helpful.  I also bought some head scarves from Amazon, which are specially designed for people who have lost their hair.  You might also find that when you get home after each chemo session, you will feel absolutely exhausted, so you will probably be doing a lot of sleeping.  Also, you might want to take some magazines or a book with you.  It can get a bit boring, just laying there waiting for your chemo session to finish, and I found that reading helped the time to go quickly.  I also bought some 'Child's Farm Shampoo' from Amazon, because your scalp might feel too sensitive for normal shampoos.  What I remember most about having chemo was how quickly it was all over.  I had to have eight sessions, and before I knew it, I was on my final session.  Good luck, and if there is anything else you would like to ask me, please feel free to do so.  xx

  • Thank you so much for taking time to reply and give me some much needed advice - and suggestions especially on dealing with chemo the idea of which I find quite overwhelming.
    Your positive comments are reassuring I have thought about being organised with some headscarves and possibly a beanie. I’m usually on the go so the tip about sleeping on return home I will make sure I rest. I’ve not been very good at that - I’m going to check out some mild shampoos too as you suggest. I know it’s a different journey for each individual but supportive ideas really help. 
    I’m determined to do what is needed. 

  • You're welcome Allegra49, and if there is anything else you need to know, please feel free to ask.  Your determination will help you to get through this.  In fact, you will find that you have a strength that you never knew you had.  xx