← Return to My Sister's Battle with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)

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@mayoconnectuser1

Quick update - nothing good, unfortunately.

Ascites has stabilized at one liter per day.

Meeting with her oncologist this morning was quietly disheartening - my sister still feels she is improving, the doctor recognizes this as denial, as I do. The net of the discussion was that my sister can leave the care facility if she wants to (we can afford it), but that she should prepare to be less mobile, and sleeping more, with help likely needed for bathroom needs and meal delivery. She then noted if there is progression, then it may be time to "get affairs in order." I believe this last phrase may finally have made an impression.

The doctor ordered another PET scan.

She then had blood drawn for the usual assessment - again, nothing good. This will allow the oncologist to be more direct, I believe, but will need to wait to see - I have a note in on the hospital server for her.

A few blood chemistry points (mainly added to urge those of you in caregiver/advocate roles to do your homework) - not sure, even with sufficient WBC of 6.7 whether this allows starting of Gem-Abraxane.

Kidney function:
BUN 36
ALT 8
eGFR 32

Cancer markers:
CA 125 - 93.8
CA 19-9 8042

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Replies to "Quick update - nothing good, unfortunately. Ascites has stabilized at one liter per day. Meeting with..."

Thank you for the updates. I find it very helpful to hear your story. Thoughts and prayers to you and your loved one

I cannot add anything medically but I appreciate your detailed posting. We must be advocates for ourselves as the doctors have so many cases. I wonder now how hard it is for those that can’t be persistent due to illness. You are a blessing to your sister. Dont take her hope away if she wants to continue to fight. I’ve rarely met a doctor that gives me hope-just the raw story. Perhaps she has a diamond!
She will know when God is ready to call her home.