In 2019, Adam Sorgi began teaching psychology, health sciences, and AP psychology at Capistrano Valley High School: the same school that he had attended as a teenager. That same year, he began coaching the school’s varsity baseball team; since he was a child, Sorgi has held a passionate love for baseball, competing on school, national, and international levels. But 2023 brought a new challenge for Sorgi: he was diagnosed with peritoneal cancer after months of severe and sometimes debilitating stomach pain. 

According to an article in Patch, the community has rallied behind Sorgi following his diagnosis. Even though this year has been intensely difficult, Sorgi has done his best to continue teaching his students. He finds comfort in the mentorship he can provide and the relationships he has formed. Throughout this, he has dealt with more than 25 visits to the hospital and various infections. 

The community is currently working to raise $150,000 to contribute to Sorgi’s continued treatment and care. If you would like to contribute to the cause, you may donate via this GoFundMe. You can also share this story online using the hashtag #SORGISTRONG.

About Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that forms in the thin layer of tissue that covers internal organs and varies based on what area is affected. For example, pleural mesothelioma affects tissue around the lungs and peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the lining of the abdomen. Mesothelioma typically occurs after inhaling asbestos particles or living with someone who works with asbestos. These thin fibers become trapped in the body, causing inflammation and damage. Symptoms often do not appear until decades after exposure. However, the MD Anderson Cancer Center shares that only 30-40% of peritoneal mesothelioma cases are related to asbestos; the remaining cases are unknown. 

Symptoms related to peritoneal mesothelioma may include:

• Abdominal pain and swelling 
• Blood clots
• Changes in bowel movement urgency or frequency
• Anemia (low red blood cell count) 
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unintentional weight loss
• Night sweats
• Peritoneal fluid accumulation

A multimodal treatment approach is the best way to manage peritoneal mesothelioma. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies may be used. Researchers are also exploring new treatment options in clinical studies.