It requires regular treatment and care, which can be hard on your body, mind, time, and finances. But there are ways to manage daily life as you treat your gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST).

It’s not only OK for you to exercise while living with GIST, it might help you live longer. Staying active also eases anxiety and depression, boosts self-esteem, and can lessen fatigue, nausea, pain, and diarrhea. Ask your doctor what kind of exercise is best for you. 

If you’re taking targeted therapy for your GIST, staying on track with doses is crucial to your care. Make it a habit by putting it into your everyday routine, such as when you brush your teeth. You can also set a reminder on your smartphone and use a pill sorter to know that you’ve taken your dose each day. 

Often GISTs can press on tissues or nerves, causing pain. Let your doctor know if this happens to you. They can discuss pain management options so you aren’t living with discomfort.

Living with advanced cancer can be stressful. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, gentle yoga, and deep breathing exercises can lower the stress in your system, boosting your mood and easing symptoms of anxiety.

If treatment zaps your strength, ask family and friends for help with household tasks and errands. If it’s in your budget, hire someone to clean or prepare meals for you. That way, you have energy for activities you enjoy. 

The costs that come with long-term cancer treatment can feel overwhelming. But there’s lots of help to be found. You just have to know where to look. An oncology social worker can point you in the direction of financial resources. Organizations such as the Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition, CancerCare, Family Reach, and the HealthWell Foundation can also help.

The foods you eat can affect your energy, mood, and overall well-being. Ask your doctor if there’s a registered dietitian you can talk to for easy, healthy meal ideas. They can also help with simple, nutritious grab-and-go snacks to have on hand when your energy is low.

Learn as much as you can about your disease. Write down information your doctor gives you, research on your own, and bring follow-up questions to your appointments. If you’re dealing with an unpleasant side effect from GIST or your treatment, say something – you don’t have to suffer in silence.

Sites like GIST Support International, The Life Raft Group (Global GIST Network), and Cancer Care’s GIST Support Group are great places to connect with others living with GIST. These resources can also point you toward in-person or online support groups, as well as education and advocacy hubs.