Hi Colleen. Thank you for reaching out. I had whipple surgery in October 2023 after a routine endoscopy discovered a 50mm sessile polyp at the ampulla. A biopsy showed the tumor was benign, but I was told that this type of tumor had the potential of becoming cancerous. Due to its size and location, whipple surgery was the only way to remove it. I am fortunate to live in close proximity to an excellent cancer hospital and I had faith in my surgeon and her staff. The surgery is a difficult one with many possible complications and side effects. I didn't want to live in fear, however, so I decided to have the tumor removed. It's been eight months now and I'm still trying to get used to the "new normal". I still get fatigued easily and I'm working on replacing the weight I lost. It also affects your mental health. The term "chronic illness burnout" comes to mind. I had no luck locating any whipple support groups locally, so I decided to sign on to Mayo Clinic Connect. I am helped and humbled by all of the posts. I was very fortunate that this tumor was discovered before it got worse. I will prayer for everyone who has gone through this surgery. And chemo and radiation? I can't even imagine the amount of strength that takes. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your group.