1. < Pancreatic Cancer

I am looking at surgery on 3/4/2025. I am in my 70’s do not have canc.

Posted by asufloss @asufloss, 4 days ago

I am on my 70’s , female , do not have cancer and approaching preventative surgery to remove pancreas , spleen, gallbladder, small part of my stomach and small intestines on 3/4/2025. I would be very appreciative if someone could share their experience.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Pancreatic Cancer Support Group.

asufloss | @asufloss | 3 days ago

Cyrus

Thank you for supporting my decision to go with MSK. I have Dr. Kingham as my surgeon.
I wonder if you have a recommendation for a good endocrinologist in the area. I would appreciate any insight into MSK and surgical nuances.

God bless and speed recovery.

Adele

REPLY
asufloss | @asufloss | 3 days ago
In reply to @cyrus73 "Adele, Dr Soares from MSK NYC performed my surgery a1/17 and did a fantastic job. The..." + (show)
@cyrus73

Adele,
Dr Soares from MSK NYC performed my surgery a1/17 and did a fantastic job. The nursing staff at MSK is super qualified and very attentive. You are in the right place and hope you have a quick uneventful recovery.
All the best!

Jump to this post

Cyrus
Did you have a full pancreatic removal with multiple organs?

If so can you share your experience.

Thank you
Adele

REPLY
asufloss | @asufloss | 3 days ago

Cyrus , I just reread your entire comment over again. You had a Whipple procedure. That is more modified version of surgery.

Any other insights re: MSK would be helpful.

Thank you in advance
Adele

REPLY
montyd | @montyd | 3 days ago

What is the purpose of such surgery if you don't currently have cancer? Have you learned that you're at very high risk of pancreatic cancer? That level surgery often leaves people with forever issues. If you don't currently have medical issues in that region of your body, I'm not so sure I'd bring them about myself. I'd recommend a second and even a third opinion before moving forward. I speak as one who has had the Whipple surgery.

REPLY
1 reply
jeeplewis | @jeeplewis | 3 days ago

I don't have much to add--I had a "simple" Whipple procedure in Sept /23 and am doing well. That said, I wish you well, too. There will be unpleasant situations and experiences on this road. Take care of what you can influence, be kind to yourself and find joy where it arises.

There's the saying that pain and fear are like velcro; joy and happiness like teflon. We're programmed (for survival) to pay attention to what could do us harm. We can also chose to spend a little more time with the joy and happiness that is also part of the journey. Don't skip over them!

"Pessimism is the analysis of the situation; optimism is the orientation of the spirit." - Anon

All the best.

REPLY
1 reply
asufloss | @asufloss | 2 days ago
In reply to @montyd "What is the purpose of such surgery if you don't currently have cancer? Have you learned..." + (show)
@montyd

What is the purpose of such surgery if you don't currently have cancer? Have you learned that you're at very high risk of pancreatic cancer? That level surgery often leaves people with forever issues. If you don't currently have medical issues in that region of your body, I'm not so sure I'd bring them about myself. I'd recommend a second and even a third opinion before moving forward. I speak as one who has had the Whipple surgery.

Jump to this post

I hear you and felt the same way. However, I have had 3 opinions, MSK, Columbia Presbyterian and Mayo Clinic . All concurred because of my risk factors . This would take away the risk of one of the most deadly cancers. However, I am fine and very active now and must deal with the situations that will arise from this type of surgery which is doable compared to the alternative.
Thank you for your concern.

REPLY
asufloss | @asufloss | 2 days ago
In reply to @jeeplewis "I don't have much to add--I had a "simple" Whipple procedure in Sept /23 and am..." + (show)
@jeeplewis

I don't have much to add--I had a "simple" Whipple procedure in Sept /23 and am doing well. That said, I wish you well, too. There will be unpleasant situations and experiences on this road. Take care of what you can influence, be kind to yourself and find joy where it arises.

There's the saying that pain and fear are like velcro; joy and happiness like teflon. We're programmed (for survival) to pay attention to what could do us harm. We can also chose to spend a little more time with the joy and happiness that is also part of the journey. Don't skip over them!

"Pessimism is the analysis of the situation; optimism is the orientation of the spirit." - Anon

All the best.

Jump to this post

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful note. Your words of support and encouragement truly mean a lot to me and have brought me comfort during this time. I deeply appreciate your kindness and warmth.”
Regards

REPLY
View MoreView Less
Please sign in or register to post a reply.