Hello everyone, and thank you for allowing me to join this discussion. My journey with pancreatic cancer began in August 2023 when I received my diagnosis. Since then, I've been through 12 rounds of chemotherapy, specifically following the FOLFIRINOX (FFX) regimen. I later underwent 15 rounds of radiation using the Proton Beam at Mayo Clinic. The cancer responded to the treatment very well. In June 2024, I had a total pancreatectomy at Mayo Clinic Rochester, where I was hospitalized for about a month. I’m incredibly grateful for the exceptional care I’ve received from my team, led by Dr. Truty.

Currently, I'm still in recovery, which I understand can take a year or longer. I have good days and bad days but most days I don't feel all that well. I recently had my first 3-month check-up, and thankfully, the cancer hasn’t metastasized. While I'm still reliant on a feeding tube about 12 hours a day for most of my nutrition, as eating orally remains challenging, I can only eat about 1 - 2 small meals a day. It's also been difficult to get my blood sugars manageable with insulin due to the feeding tube.

I'm exploring ways to manage nutrition and comfort. I’ve been learning more about Creon dosages to help with digestion, and I'm also addressing neuropathy in my hands and feet with acupuncture and topical creams. Medical cannabis is another area I’m experimenting with, in tablet and gummy forms, to help with various symptoms. Additionally, I've started working with a psychiatrist to develop coping skills for this new chapter of my life.

I would also add that I have an incredible support system with my wife, children, and friends.

I look forward to learning from everyone here and I'd be glad to share insights from my own experiences.