If his general health is good, and Whipple is successful, he may be around for years. Chemo may still be needed but that will be determined after surgery. The Whipple surgery itself will result in life changes - possible need for insulin and digestive enzymes. Again, catching it early is good news! I was diagnosed with stage 3 over 2 years ago, had Whipple surgery followed by chemo and am still here!