Anita Sharma*, 41, is a regular, busy professional in Delhi, who was suddenly diagnosed with GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor). She shares her experience with us.
Please tell us about the condition you are dealing with
I was diagnosed with GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor). I also underwent surgery. But I’m better now after regular checkups.
What were the early symptoms? What made you go to a doctor? How were you diagnosed?
I have not experienced any symptoms or difficulties prior to my diagnosis. I have always been very active and healthy. I am a lawyer by profession and a dancer by passion—dance has been a part of my life since childhood, and it has also become my second profession.
One evening after my office work, I was rehearsing with my dance team for an upcoming performance. After about an hour of practice, I started feeling a bit dizzy. I assumed it was due to the intense rehearsal and decided to stop for the day.
After a shower and dinner, I went to bed. Suddenly, around 2 am, I vomited blood and lost consciousness. My family rushed me to a private hospital, where doctors diagnosed me with GIST. They initially advised waiting until the next day for surgery. However, I began vomiting blood again quite severely, and the doctors decided to operate immediately.
What happened next?
The tumor was removed from the outer lining of my stomach. I spent two weeks in the hospital and was then discharged. Post-surgery, the doctors prescribed medication such as Imatinib. When I researched the side effects online, I became concerned and sought a second opinion at Medanta Hospital. They, too, recommended the same treatment.
What was your reaction to the diagnosis and surgery?
It was all so sudden for me, I was still uncertain about how things played out. I decided to consult at AIIMS New Delhi, where I met Dr. Sameer Rastogi. He assessed my case and informed me that I fell under the low-risk category of GIST, so medication was not necessary. Instead, he advised me to undergo follow-up checkups every six months with a CECT (Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography) scan.
How and when did you break it to your family?
I was unconscious. So it was my family that took the decision for surgery.
What is your present condition and your present treatment?
Presently, I am fine. No treatment. I diligently followed Dr. Rastogi’s guidance for four years without any medication. My surgery was in 2018, and I continued follow-ups until 2023. By the grace of God, I have had no medical issues since and continue to enjoy both my professions, practicing law and dancing as well.
What medications are you on?
Since the was low-risk GIST category, I have not needed any medications.
What else do you do to heal and improve quality of life (diet, nutrition, exercise)?
Yes, I do exercise and try to eat nutritious food. I have not made any lifestyle changes.
Have you faced any complications from GIST or its treatment?
No
Have you tried alternative medicines or therapies, like Ayurveda, homeopathy, siddha?
No
Do you have a family history of this condition? Was genetic testing done?
No
How has your family supported you?
I have a very supportive family. All my friends and relatives knew when I was hospitalized, and they were very supportive.
Any advice for other patients with GIST?
Face it courageously, think positively, stay strong and trust in the process. God is always with you.
What are you worried about for the future?
No worries. I’m enjoying the present.
* Name changed on request
