Stage II Gastric Cancer: Sagan's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Sagan was evaluated after digestive symptoms led to blood testing and an endoscopy, where doctors found a stomach mass. MRI was also used to assess whether the cancer had spread. The eventual diagnosis was Stage II stomach cancer. Sagan already lived with a disability and used a wheelchair, making the prospect of treatment especially worrying.

Treatment included a partial gastrectomy and chemotherapy with capecitabine and oxaliplatin. Sagan reported completing treatment but continued to need medicines for pain, nausea, diarrhea and stomach acid. Neuropathy, low blood counts and mucositis made treatment difficult, including painful swallowing and increased fatigue. Physiotherapy exercises, breathing exercises and high-protein, high-calorie foods became part of recovery.

Cancer also affected work and family life. Sagan closed a business because treatment and side effects made it too difficult to continue. Living far from aging parents was particularly hard, and Sagan hoped to visit them once stronger. Therapy and regular phone calls with family helped manage fear of death and the added burden of disability. By the time of the story, Sagan felt thankful and more optimistic after completing treatment.