I had chemo before surgery and then after. I now know that I have a rare genotype cell and wish I had done surgery first. It might have gotten the CA out before cells had time to travel to other organs. 6 months after Whipple I now have mets in the liver and working hard to keep that in check with various treatments. Have either surgery but get to it. Ask that they do genetic workup of the removed tumor as it can help guide follow-up treatment. Your planned chemo can be rough on some patients, but it is the best combo to use. I faired well considering. They gave me nausea meds that are also used for seasickness but they usually had the opposite effects on me so I use Zofran when needed and it works well. I also keep Gaviscon on hand for heartburn or upset stomach and that works really fast. Ask questions of this group as there are patients with different experiences and they can lend a hand at options. Think of living and do your best to stay on the positive... my daughter is 100% and keeps me in the light.