Hello! My name is Karla and I live in SW MO near Branson. I’m 52 years old and a retired educator. I retired early due to health issues. Coincidentally, in May of this year I had what I call an “episode” …severe abdominal pain coupled with much nausea. Seven years ago I was diagnosed with early menopause (hysterectomy at a young age), IBS, and diabetes. I consider myself an active person (hiking and outdoors, walking, camping,…). I thought perhaps I had Chrohns disease or something as I’d frequently get these. I went to ER in Branson and they discovered a very large mass on pancreas~fearing the worst I was transported to Springfield hospital. It was determined after many scans and biopsy I had a PNET. Unfortunately, it is metastasized to liver (5 large tumors), lymph nodes, skull, neck, spine, hip, and pelvis. I did 3 month of CAPTEM oral chemo, it didn’t show much change and new ones were on each set of ribs,. My quality of life was down and I also have severe anemia. I completed my 2nd round of PRRT and it’s been a bit rougher. I’ll have more bloodwork after Christmas and I’m anxious to have another NETSPOT PET to see if this treatment is shrinking the tumors. My doctors here will not operate. Dr. Liu in CO could….but how do I recover so far away? It would be about $30000 out of pocket as they don’t take Missouri Medicaid. I’m so limited by my insurance and the fact my parents are aging, I live alone, and my sons (and families) are in Air Force and have their lives! I’m doing my best, although the pain levels get fierce. I can tell I’m so much weaker than before. Depending on how my blood counts go I’ll keep going with PRRT. I do have faith and a positive attitude. I move when I can and rest as I can! I’m blessed to have family and friends nearby, but sad there are no experts in my area. It’s a new journey for me too. I’ve learned so much and take one day at a time!