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Pancreatic Cancer Group: Introduce yourself and connect with others

Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: 11 hours ago | Replies (1382)
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@martaisaac

Dear Beth,
Thank you for your reply. I am sorry that you are suffering.
Twenty-seven years ago I underwent chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. I was not Stage 4 but they gave me the same protocol. I did not have a good experience with the chemo side-effects though that cancer has not returned. Now at age 74 I was told I had pancreatic cancer and the treatment would be chemo, radiation, Whipple surgery, and more chemo. I was told that would give me 20% chance of one more year of disease-free life. I didn’t think those odds were worth the side-effects of the treatment. Since the diagnosis I have had a wonderful year of symptom-free life with my husband.
Keep me posted as to what you decide.

All the best. Marta

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Replies to "Dear Beth, Thank you for your reply. I am sorry that you are suffering. Twenty-seven years..."
bethf | @bethf | Mar 29, 2023

Hi Marta,
Thanks so much for your reply. I find it very interesting and relevant to my own situation. Right now I am not suffering. I feel 100% great physically. I am able to do everything I enjoy (eat delicious food, camp, ride my horse, hike, play with my kitten, spend time with my husband, travel, etc.). I have no symptoms and a wonderful quality of life. I have increased tumor markers but no tumors on the scan. At some point, it is likely that I will develop a tumor or metastasis. Then I will be at a crossroads with the same considerations you have thought about. I value the quality of my life and it is more important to me than quantity. Right now I am interested in an immunotherapy trial, but I don't know if I would do chemo again. I'm so glad you have had this amazing 27 years and the wonderful year with your husband. Let's stay in touch.

I am curious however, given that you don't intend to do any treatment, what value you are seeking by joining this group?
Beth

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