I was treated at an NCI Center of Excellence with an a high volume pancreas program and oncologists experienced in treating cancers of the pancreas. Original version of Folfirinox that was 20% higher in concentration of its components than today’s (m) Folfirinox was used. It was administered at full dose every 15th day for 24 months with no pause, delay or break in treatment. In the two times WBC count dropped, Neulasta was used to boost the count and prevent a delay in the next treatment cycle.

Because the technique of cold therapy was not known back in 2012 and there was concern in developing permanent chemo induced peripheral neuropathy, alternate dosing was used where the first six cycles were Folfirinox and the next six were considered resting cycles of just 5-FU/Leucovorin. This was to give the peripheral nerves a break and was hoped the 5-FU alone would be sufficient to keep the tumors stable until the next six doses of Folfirinox were administered. To everyone’s surprise, my tumors continued to have a significant shrinkage on just the 5-FU. This alternate dosing continued until 46 cycles when it was felt I had obtained as much benefit and what remained was scar tissue from what had been the two largest tumors.

I maintained moderate exercise throughout chemo of walking a minimum of 150 minutes per week, riding a stationary bike or walking multiple flights of stairs at work several times a day. I was strong physically, emotionally and mentally and committed to persevering.