Pancreatic cancer and weight loss

[Jano13]

Hello all. I am new to this site and am a 63 year old lady with pancreatic cancer for the second time. It is inoperable which is just such a scary fact for me to live with, but what choice do I have? 

I have been on Gemcitobine Chemotherapy for 18 months now and the tumour is stable so now I am able to decrease the Chemo sessions from 3 per month down to 2 per month which I am grateful for.

My weight loss is my issue atm as I have lost so much weight that I have very wrinkled skin and feel like a bag of bones and so very ugly. To some of you reading this, you may think I am being very conceited, but it is affecting me so much that I don't want anyone to see me or visit me as I look so damn awful. Any ideas on help with weight gain and body image factors. TIA. 

[kj]

H

 Hi Jano 13

I’m sorry to read what is happening to you,I don’t think you are being conceited about your looks I understand you being self conscious but true friends won’t judge you on your looks they just want to support in any way possible have a chat to your GP or oncologist about your diet needs if you haven’t already.

I know weight gain while having chemo can be very difficult,pancreatic cancer is very draining,that’s good your chemo has been reduced,that may give your body some help to get calories to it ,a go to food for me was scrambled eggs on toast,also hospital sustagen blende with milk and bananas,sorry that’s the only suggestion I have.,you are on a very harsh treatment so try not to judge yourself to harsh

kj

[Susana_CCNSW]

Hello Jano13,

I am very sorry about your diagnosis, unfortunately there is not much you can do right now about it, just stay strong and positive, nothing is written in stone so make the most of each day.

Please do not feel guilty for  worrying about your looks, it is natural and we all want to look our best as it also helps to feel better.

If this issue or any other  is affecting your daily life  please reach out for some emotional support by calling our information and support line on 131120 Monday to Friday 9-5 (Australia only)

Best wishes

Susana 

Cancer Council

Online Community

[Jess24]

Hi Jano, I'm sorry to hear that. It's natural and normal for you to be feeling that way. So my big tips for weight loss issue are protein shakes and oils. Buy your own protein powder and then you can drink a very nutritious drink without having to eat. Buy high quality olive oil and MCT oil and you can take tablespoons at a time. It's high calories and easy to ingest. I hope this helps. Sending you lots of love.