I was the patient that did 24 cycles of the original version of Folfirinox used from 2011 through 2017 that was 20% higher in concentration than today’s (m)Folfirinox. I also did 22 cycles of 5-FU/Leucovorin as resting cycles from the Folfirinox to let my body recover and lessen the impact of peripheral neuropathy from the oxaliplatin. This alternate dosing every six cycles helped as cold therapy to prevent chemo induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) was not yet known.

Why did I advocate in doing 46 cycles total? Before I even realized I was stage IV, I knew the statistics for the different stages. I was age 55 and dying from pancreatic cancer was not an option. It was essentially “do or die” as my goal was long-term survival-not buying some time. I had nothing to lose and everything to gain even if I ended up with long-term or permanent issues in doing excessive chemo. I would find out a way to deal with the “new normal”.

I’ve pushed myself hard before and was not hesitant to do it again and see just how much the human body can endure when you set goals and are not afraid to try. I followed all the advice of my care team in using medications to prevent/ameliorate side effects. I continued my daily activities of full-time work and exercising. This helped physically, mentally and emotionally. I’ve exceeded 11.5 years and just had my routine exam and blood work yesterday (Monday) as having participated in a clinical trial for maintenance monotherapy after standard of care chemo. I will be followed for life by clinician-scientists. The physical exam and blood tests indicate I remain healthy and NED with an excellent quality of life and no residual effects from the chemotherapy.