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Treatment options for pancreatic cancer stage 4?

Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: Apr 4, 2023 | Replies (59)

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@marciak9

Anyone that’s been through the Whipple procedure that can tell me what to expect?
I also couldn’t have chemo because my bloodwork was not good enough. They said to just rest but I feel like I should do more to bring the numbers up.

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Replies to "Anyone that’s been through the Whipple procedure that can tell me what to expect? I also..."

I had Whipple in Feb 2021 followed by folfirinox (12 treatments). The surgery left me wth an incision from bottom of rib cage to navel, with drains for most of the week I was in hospital. Pain was well controlled, eating was limited to clear fluids at first, as expected after this type of surgery, then graduated to puréed foods for a couple weeks. I was walking with support within a couple days. On insulin and digestive enzymes ever since as pancreas doesn’t produce any (or not enough at least). Chemo wasn’t fun but was easier than I anticipated- mainly exhaustion, low energy, some mild nausea. Hair thinned but i didn’t lose it all. Temporary cold sensitivity. Later had neuropathy develop in hands and feet which remained. Be honest about how you are feeling - medical staff had lots of tips to help and can get Dr to prescribe anti nausea meds etc. I had a port inserted for chemo- ask about getting a numbing cream to use before treatments (I used Emla)- made a world of difference for my comfort. Best part of it all was that I am still alive! Met some wonderful people. You CAN do this! Best wishes!