Frank Blandon’s gastric cancer journey highlights the resilience and courage required to face an unexpected and challenging diagnosis. A software developer originally from Nicaragua and now living in Georgia, Frank was diagnosed with stage 4 gastric cancer after a series of complex medical tests. He shares his story to inspire others, raise awareness about early detection, and emphasize the value of community support.
An Unusual Path to a Gastric Cancer Diagnosis
Frank’s journey started with a surprising symptom: fluid in the scrotum, known as a hydrocele. After a visit to a urologist, a CT scan of his chest, abdomen, and pelvis revealed enlarged lymph nodes, leading to a diagnosis of testicular cancer. Frank began chemotherapy, enduring two rounds that led to hair loss and other side effects.
However, further pathology results revealed a different reality—this wasn’t testicular cancer. Continued testing ultimately revealed a mass in his stomach, leading to a diagnosis of stage 4 gastric adenocarcinoma.
Adapting to a New Gastric Cancer Treatment Plan
Frank’s treatment plan initially followed protocols for testicular cancer, including a drug called cisplatin, which also works against gastric cancer. Fortunately, his lymph nodes responded, shrinking by 50%. Once doctors confirmed his cancer’s origin as gastric, they changed his regimen to FOLFOX, a treatment designed for gastric cancer, combined with immunotherapy. Frank’s body responded well to this adjusted treatment.
Advanced genetic testing performed at Indiana University showed Frank had a high mutation burden, qualifying him for immunotherapy with Keytruda, a drug tailored for certain genetic profiles. Although tests for common hereditary markers came back negative, leaving the cause of his cancer unknown, Frank remains hopeful.
The Role of Support for Gastric Cancer Patients
Facing cancer can be isolating, and Frank admits there were times he withdrew from friends and family. Support groups, however, provided him with a sense of connection and understanding, reminding him he wasn’t alone. Frank’s advice? “Don’t stay isolated for too long. Support can make a difference.”
Hope for the Future: Early Detection of Gastric Cancer
Today, Frank’s goal is to manage his condition as a chronic illness. For others, he hopes for earlier detection and improved treatment options so they might avoid the experience of a late-stage diagnosis. His dream is for gastric cancer to be seen not as a death sentence but as a journey that can be faced with hope, support, and better outcomes.
Frank’s story is a testament to the importance of early detection, patient support, and continued medical advancements in the fight against gastric cancer.
In Frank’s Words:
“The hope is it doesn’t really become like a death sentence for people, that once they get diagnosed, even though it’s scary, they have a chance at life.”
“Where there’s hope, there’s life.”
By highlighting Frank Blandon’s gastric cancer journey, we aim to spread hope and promote awareness for those affected by gastric cancer.