James, “It isn’t over until it’s over!” I’ve been on that statistical, Cancer Wheel of Fortune, with bad odds. But here I am 3 years later in full remission. I don’t have your particular cancer but had I not taken the chance with chemo I wouldn’t be here.
At 74 you can have many great years ahead of you. But not if you don’t take the proactive step to get underway with the chemo and treatment for your disease. You will have some miserable days, I can guarantee it. It’s mostly nausea but your team will keep you covered with different nausea meds.

Fatigue will be your companion for a few months as well.
You might have some gut issues but if you can keep a reasonable diet and eat some yogurt daily with at least a teaspoon of ground flax, that seemed to help keep my intestines and stomach happier.
You also might lose your hair and have some mouth sores. The side effects are largely temporary. I was 65 when this all happened, now 68, strong and energetic.

I’m a mentor at my local hospital for other cancer patients and potential bone marrow transplant patients. My latest mentee is 75 years young, just finished his induction and consolidation chemo for AML with flying colors. He’s now heading off for his transplant.
So, with you being at 74 and having the possibility of a healthy future ahead of you with chemo or a limited future without it, personally, I’d keep an eye on the prize and go for the chemo.

Will you also require some surgery or any radiation?

@makatak47 You pose a very personal question. That is, each person has their own story, their own unique journey in a cancer situation. Remember, what works for one may need to be modified to work for someone else. With the right-for-you combination you absolutely have a chance at "some more years". I saw on your profile that your doctor there in the Philippines says the cancer in non-operable. If I was in your shoes, I would hold off accepting that until your case has been reviewed by the Mayo Clinic doctors you are set to see, and listen to their treatment plan ideas.

Now is a good time to write down questions you have, concerns that have come to mind, and carry those along with you to your appointments. Don't be afraid to ask for information to be repeated if you didn't hear/understand it the first time. One of the things that seems to help me, is to ask my care team, "If I was your sister, how would you advise me?" That seems to personalize things; I did that years ago with melanoma, and have done it several times since. You will have the final sayso, always, in any treatment.

How are you feeling today? How can I support you?
Ginger

Dear @makatak47
It's quite understandable that you would be afraid of all the unknown. We all go through the same feelings when diagnosed with the word " cancer". It threatens our very precious life. However, you can fight this. Seek the health team for this particular issue and set up an appointment right away for evaluation. I would call Mayo at selected states you would like to go. I hope you will get the needed care as soon as possible.
Kind regards
#ROSE53