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Decided not to have surgery. What’s next?
Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: May 5 11:48pm | Replies (44)Comment receiving replies
Hello
I’m doing pretty good. CA19-9 is 11 and tumor is the same size. I have been experiencing sharp stabbing pain in my stomach every once in a while. Nothing shows on CT. Oncologist thinks it may be the pancreas pressing on the celiac plexus nerves. Trying an extended pain killer to get ahead of it. If that doesn’t work he can go down with a scope and block the nerves.
I didn’t mean to come across as an expert on maintenance chemo. I’m not on any. We scheduled a return visit in 2 months.
Replies to "Hello I’m doing pretty good. CA19-9 is 11 and tumor is the same size. I have..."
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Hi Marcia - I have read your story and offer my sympathies for what you are experiencing. Coincidently, my wife of 70 years old and is experiencing very much your story; PC diagnosed October 2023, Stage 3, locally advanced with vascular involvement. multiple rounds of FOLFIRINOX at Methodist hospital in Minneapolis area, followed by GEMCITABINE. Surgery referred to Mayo Rochester (Dr. Truty) and oncology team. Completing 3rd week of chemo radiation at Mayo. Tumor marker has subsided to normal range, FDG uptake and size of tumor slightly reduced. We've had the frank conversation with Dr. Truty, who is willing to take on surgery removing pancreas, spleen, gall bladder, etc; tentatively scheduled for June 5 2024. Currently attempting to decide on quality vs. quantity of life and in search of any and all information to make that decision. How are you feeling? What have you learned since making your decision. Would like to talk. Sincerely, drh