Whipple procedure and follow up chemo

Posted by dakotarunner @dakotarunner, Apr 4, 2019

I had the Whipple procedure done at Mayo 2/8/19 and got out of hospital on 2/19. Had to go back to my local hospital a week later for dehydration pain and nausea, and was there for a week. Just had follow up at Mayo 4/1, and the surgical crew thought I was doing well. I can eat, and have to limit myself at meals, as I tend to want to eat too much.I lost 40 pounds, and still feel super weak and get fatigued easily. Mayo oncology want me to start chemo at 2 months out, and I have an appointment with a local oncolog4/10. My question is am I smart to be looking at chemo when I feel so worn out. I see chemo recommendation for starting at 8 to 12 weeks after surgery. Also, am wondering what chemo course to take. Mayo liked the Flofirinox treatment.. I was tabbed at Stage II after the Whipple. They did the normal resection, but also resection a section of my transverse colon that appeared to be cancerous.
the overall diagnosis was Pancreatic cancer. I would appreciate any input. Thank you in advance

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krfinlayson | @krfinlayson | Dec 18, 2022

I had Whipple surgery in Feb 2021, followed by chemo (stage 3 pancreatic cancer). I usually take 6 creon 25 (150,000 units) immediately before starting to eat. I was advised to slowly increase the amount of creon until stool colour approaches normal. I was also given some ranges based on body weight (need 500-2500 units per kg body weight per meal) and fat content (need 300-1800 units per gram of fat). Too little creon results in gas, bloating, diarrhea. Sufficient results in darker stools. Almost impossible to overdose so don’t be afraid to take more. I am close to taking the max and haven’t yet achieved the desired colour but generally have minimal issues unless I forget to take the creon. My family will often ask if I have taken my pills at mealtimes! I hope this helps.