Of course you are anxious! No one volunteers for cancer of anything! I have stage 3 stomach cancer, diagnosed over year ago. Have had two courses of chemotherapy, and am in remission today. I will most likely not have surgery. The advice given here seems right on. I'd just add the idea that , since I have no relatives anywhere close by, my daughter( who lives far away ) is on conference call during appointments. She takes notes and reviews on the phone with me afterwards. Very helpful.

My oncologist gave me a helpful idea. He advised refraining from reading the statistics on Dr. Google. He stressed the fact that we are each very unique individuals physically, emotionally, and in all ways. The stats, therefore, are not reliable predictors of either the quality or the length of our own life post-treatment. Unfortunately, I had already read them. Here are a few ways my experience did not coincide with my reading: The chemotherapy effects were tolerable. At 87, I live independently, do all life tasks except heavy yard care and heavy housecleaning. I fatigue a bit faster than pre-cancer, and (like every one) fight the anxiety of "What's next? and "Should I plant veggies for Fall? " But, my delight in daily life has changed very little.

Last, please consider that advances in treatment occur at an amazing rate. My oncologist has addressed the possibilities of what can be done when the current remission ends. At least one additional new treatment has
been approved since my diagnosis. That's incredibly hopeful for you because of your age. It's in your favor!

Take heart! I hope you will share the ideas you find on how to tame the anxiety beast and let us know how you are doing. If you are encouraged by prayers that you find peace, you have mine.

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