💜 Surviving Pancreatic Cancer for 3 years and beyond 💜

Hi! I was a healthy, active 39yo mother of 2 elementary aged children at diagnosis in August 2022. Symptoms of mild upper abdominal discomfort began January 2022. Classified stage III locally advanced non resectable at diagnosis. Completed 2 rounds FOLFIRINOX, 5 rounds Gemzar/Abraxane, 28 days radiation, then had total pancreatectomy with major vascular reconstruction with Dr Truty in July 2023. Pathology showed complete pathological response, all 27 lymph nodes clear. NED until April 2025. Had 1 metastatic lung nodule surgically removed and 5 radiation sessions to another lung nodule. Declared NED again following those procedures. I had no genetic mutations, risk factors, or family history. Testing on the lung nodule showed KRAS G12D.

To add... I was able to work throughout chemo, and after surgery recovery, have regained 30ish pounds and returned to running, working out, doing all the things. I travel, swim, ski, volunteer at my kids school, effectively manage my diabetes (most days). All this to say, yes this is a terrifying diagnosis, but there are options and many people survive MUCH longer than originally told. Advocate for yourself, seek 2nd/3rd/4th opinions, dont give up hope! 💜

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota is one of best places in US along with Clinical Cancer Center - Froedtert Hospital Dr. Doug Evens. You need to go to to an Institution that specialize in pancreatic cancer

Answering azsunshine7:
Diagnosed 11/2022 by gastroenterologist after many tests (83 years old, no health problems or medications other than for glaucoma)
Malignancy noted in pancreas; some lymph nodes affected; chemo (foflorinox regime) recommended with Whipple to follow. Quit chemo after 2-3 infusions as it was intolerable to me; had Whipple in May, 2023. Refused chemo, recovered normal life other than 30 lb weight loss to 91 lbs and digestive issues.
Diagnosed with peritoneal carcinomatosis in 2025; radiation of tumor abutting urethra. Started new chemo (Gem/Abrax, reduced dosage) approx 7/2025 which is very tolerable and lowered marker from over 1000 to 200's, more reduction to come I hope
Other health regimens: read "You Can Conquer Cancer" by Ian Gawler. Have started meditation, imaging, continued healthy diet and exercise like walking. Started Creon about 4 months ago; getting more nutrients out of my food I think.
Had Guardant mutation test: nothing cancer related
Currently feel good with little pain other than gas, just limited energy. No "concerning" issues revealed in CT scans. I feel fortunate. (Sorry about not being more specific with medical terms) My refusal of chemo that impacts my life is due to my age; I can't sacrifice the well being of my current life for the hope of more years in the future.
Carrie

I am 84 and diagnosed with stage 1 pancreatic cancer in September 2025. I tried chemo of folfirinox and did not tolerate the first treatment. So I am refusing any more treatment. The same reason you said——I’ll choose my current well being rather than treatment with the probably false hope of more years in the future. Thank you for sharing your thoughts as well.

@ashley2235

Wow, you’re so young, yet you have such an incredible pancreatic cancer story! It’s truly inspiring to hear everything you’ve been through. Thank you for sharing such a detailed explanation—it really gives a glimpse into your journey.

I’m glad you’re with your children right now. It’s heartwarming to hear you’re together.

Did you also exercise while on your medical regimen?

Thank you for the message “Don’t give up hope”!

@carrie40

Dear Courageous Carrie,

I hope this message finds you in great spirits, my friend! 💖

I just wanted to take a moment to express how much I appreciated your post. I'm planning to make a trip to the bookstore soon, and Im going to take a peek at it.

Additionally, I think it's fantastic that you’re incorporating healthy eating and exercise into your lifestyle. I've read and heard from various sources that these practices can play a significant role in healing our bodies and enhancing our overall well-being. It’s inspiring to see you taking such proactive steps toward better health.

It sounds like you’re doing exceptionally well right now, especially in terms of your health. Your journey is truly motivating, and I admire your commitment to living a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Keep shining and inspiring those around you!

Warmest wishes,
AzSunshine

@ardithbjorge
Thank you...things might be different if we were the young women we used to be! But I do want to mention the Gem/Abrax infusions I'm getting now; I understand they are only palliative, but do help with pain if it is present. If the infusions add a year or two without making my life miserable, I'm willing to take a chance on neuropathy and other side effects. And I advocate for a lesser dosage, due to age, my size and sensitivity to drugs. Keep in touch...Carrie

@azsunshine7 yes, I have always exercised. I had to cut back a bit during chemo and radiation, and then obviously post surgery was very difficult. But moving my body, even when it seemed impossible, always helped my spirit. I reflect back on not even being able to sit up unassisted in the hospital, to running 5K races now. Its a slow journey, but so very blessed to be here!

@carrie40 That’s new info I hadn’t heard about. But I will see the oncologist on the 22nd. Maybe he will tell me then. That does sound reasonable. I still have the port.