What happened, in summary

Miguel, from the United States, saw a doctor after repeated digestive problems, a persistent stomach ache and unexplained weight loss. An endoscopy found an ulcer, and the evaluation led to a diagnosis of Stage II stomach cancer.

Treatment started with chemotherapy to shrink the tumor. Miguel then underwent a partial gastrectomy, followed by additional chemotherapy. Recovery brought fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dumping syndrome and problems absorbing nutrients. Miguel adapted by eating smaller, more frequent meals with high-calorie and high-protein foods and taking vitamin and mineral supplements. Diet and exercise habits also changed, with less alcohol and greater attention to healthy food choices.

The illness affected family life as well. Miguel's wife had died a year before the cancer diagnosis, and treatment delayed a planned visit to her grave. Miguel also hoped to visit a son in New York once feeling better. Although the treatment period was difficult and the digestive effects continued, Miguel focused on remaining independent and encouraged others to stay strong and keep going through life's ups and downs.