Hello- I was diagnosed with stage 2b adenocarcinoma in the head of the pancreas in May 2019 at age 58. PET scan at that time showed no other tumors. I started FOLFIRINOX chemo the next month- and had 12 treatments. After a few weeks off, I had chemo-radiation in Jan 2020. After all of this my tumor had shrunk to less than half its original size. My Whipple was scheduled for March 13,2020 ( the day the world shut down!). I had to have portal vein reconstruction during the Whipple, my pylorus and duodenum were removed at that time also (I had a lot of scar tissue in that area from previous surgeries) , and was in the hospital for 8 days by myself due to COVID. During surgery The cancer also caused me to have insulin dependent DM. In conversations with my doctors I asked about adjuvant chemo- and I did 6 treatments of Gemzar and Xeloda starting in May 2020. At surgery my tumor was re-staged at 1 (at diagnosis was 2b-3 possibly resectable). With the approval of all my doctors, I have been taking very tiny micro doses of cannabis oil concentrate since I was diagnosed. This is high CBD/low THC concentrate that I get legally with my medical card. I truly believe this has helped shrink my tumor along with the chemo and radiation. MMJ also help with nausea and some aches and pain. I realize this may not be an option to a choice for everyone, but I did want to add this info.
I am now almost 4 years out from diagnosis and almost 3 years from Whipple. Yes-I am diabetic. Yes-I have to take Creon. Yes- I am very tired after a busy day. But…I am ALIVE! I get to spend time with my now three grandchildren and last year I raised money and walked in the PANCan Purple Stride Chicago walk to help raise money. It is wonderful to be able to feel that I can participate in somehow giving back to other patients and their families going through this life changing disease.💜 Keep fighting! There is always hope- I have met a 10 year thriver of Stage 4 Pan Can and she is happily taking chemo every 3-4 weeks to be able to spend time with her family. She is my inspiration! I am adding my post-Whipple surgery notes if you want to see the final results.