Stage II Gastric Cancer: Drew's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Drew sought medical care after experiencing stomach pain, and an endoscopy was recommended in part because gastric cancer had affected other family members. The evaluation confirmed Stage II stomach cancer. Drew later shared that a father and uncle had also died from gastric cancer.

Drew followed the treatment plan recommended by the medical team and also researched options independently with help from family and health websites. Part of the stomach was removed during treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine was also used alongside conventional care. Treatment brought nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and substantial weight fluctuations, which Drew managed with better nutrition and prescribed medicines for symptoms. By late 2023, more than 3 years after diagnosis, Drew had completed cancer treatment and was no longer taking medication.

Daily life changed after cancer. Drew reduced alcohol, paid closer attention to food choices and spent more time with family. Fear that the cancer could return remained, particularly because of the family history, but Drew tried to manage that fear through positive thinking, dietary choices and support from family and friends. Future plans included travel with family and friends and seeing a son graduate from university.