Most mornings, 66-year-old Luis Rios begins his day with movement, whether it’s a walk, light weightlifting or some other physical […]
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Survivors
Steven Merlin is a 12-year pancreatic cancer survivor who is doing well today in large part thanks to his treatment […]
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Pancreatic cancer survivor Tamara Holmes turned to PanCAN’s Stories of Hope as she navigated her own journey. They showed her […]
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Growing up, Laurie Buffett McGuane was close to her big brother, the legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett. Decades later, their bond […]
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Art and Elaine Taylor are grateful, so they give back to PanCAN to help others.
Meredith Brunelle is a survivor. She gives to PanCAN to protect future generations.
PanCAN volunteer Rob Caruano shares his story.
Lean Into Community, Share Your Story
apr 24, 2023
Survivor Kit Rudd, captain of Team Cookin’ Up a Cure, talks second opinions, community and more.
A Q&A With PanCAN Volunteer Marty Hynes
apr 14, 2023
Meet PanCAN volunteer and pancreatic cancer survivor Marty Hynes.
Find out why these two sisters are taking steps for two PanCAN PurpleStride events.
Put Your Health First, Says Six-Year Survivor
feb 1, 2023
Teona Ducre raises awareness and encourages patient self-advocacy.
Survivor Reesa Levy talks about why she chose to enroll in a clinical trial.
Survivor Andy Lyons Urges “Vigilance and Diligence”
nov 21, 2022
Survivor Andy Lyons wants to determine why his family has been hit so hard by pancreatic cancer.
Crystal Morgan shares her journey through social media with equal doses of humor and wisdom.
Richard Novell shares his story to give others hope, and to honor brother.
Kay Kays makes sure patients benefit from research through her advocacy.
Friends, Family, PanCAN an Anchor in the Storm
oct 13, 2022
The PanCAN community brings hope and support to pancreatic cancer survivor Amanda Winge.
He’s leaving a gift to PanCAN in his will to make a positive change for others.
A 20-year survivor, Diane Schooley-Pettis looks forward to another year on Survivor Council.
My Mom’s Cheerleader Spirit
jul 21, 2022
Christa Santa-Donato shares how her mom has faced a pancreatic cancer diagnosis by embracing life.
The Fifth Card, Love
jul 13, 2022
Troy and Jennifer Florence share their “five-card poker hand” for facing pancreatic cancer.
Taking Charge, Finding Answers
jun 28, 2022
After a successful treatment put her in the national spotlight, Kathy Wilkes urges biomarker testing.
Survivor’s Journey to Answers, and the New Normal
jun 11, 2022
Rod Devlin encourages other people facing pancreatic cancer during a speech at PanCAN PurpleStride Richmond 2022.
Vicky Waterman’s story of hope, which she shared at PanCAN PurpleStride Chicago.
Reesa Levy, five-year survivor, shares her story and encourages Action Week participation.
18-year survivor shares PurpleStride LA speech, encourages participation in PanCAN Action Week.
Not Just a Patient – A Survivor
jun 6, 2022
Robert Duran rides his bike nearly every day – and advocates for research and treatment options.
Michael Fitzpatrick volunteers with PanCAN, participates in PurpleStride and more.
Find out how Nayana Ferguson continues to inspire others and break through barriers.
A Pancreatic Cancer Journey to Healing
feb 22, 2022
Biomarker testing pinpointed effective treatment for Joanie Kriens’ pancreatic cancer
Pamela Jackson wishes more people facing pancreatic cancer knew about PanCAN
A Survivor Pays It Forward
jan 31, 2022
Volunteer Randi Ervin shares her story, encourages others to advocate for themselves.
Dr. Ira Sharp benefits from clinical trial, gives back as PanCAN volunteer
The Queen of Everything’s New York Adventure
sep 29, 2021
A pancreatic cancer survivor and daughter’s grand trip.
Two pancreatic cancer survivors discuss the feelings associated with beating the disease.
Survivor Story: Glen Trotiner
aug 13, 2021
I have always been a storyteller, mostly by helping make movies, which I have always hoped has helped people forget […]
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When Elliott was diagnosed, he decided to share his experience to help others.
Age and borders are no barriers for connection of these pancreatic cancer patients.
The longtime official is raising awareness and funds with the support of the NBRA.
Laurie says PanCAN provided hope, friendship and a purpose through her cancer journey.
It’s Men’s Health Month and this pancreatic cancer survivor has a message for men.
17-Year Survivor: ‘I’m Here to Offer Hope’
jun 6, 2021
Kitty Swink, known for “Star Trek” roles, inspires others facing pancreatic cancer.
On National Cancer Survivors’ Day, pancreatic cancer survivors offer inspiration.
Survivor Story: Richard Levy
may 24, 2021
I am a former attorney who now teaches high school in a Dallas suburb. My pancreatic cancer was found in […]
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What should patients do after diagnosis? A doctor weighs in from personal experience.
Survivor Story: Paul Suntup
mar 18, 2021
I was diagnosed with acinar cell carcinoma of the pancreas (a rare type of pancreatic cancer) in November 2018. The […]
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Survivor Story: Laura Metzger
mar 18, 2021
At the end of 2011, I experienced an acute episode of diarrhea and vomiting for hours. I had returned home […]
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“I’ve been an advocate for following the science throughout my journey,” survivor Jeff Eidens says. And PanCAN Patient Services has […]
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Survivor Story: Robert Joest
feb 9, 2021
I was lucky to have jaundice when my tumor was stage II. I had the Whipple surgery in April 2015 […]
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Cynthia Merrell
feb 9, 2021
In 2012, I was 39, a wife and a mother to three girls. I was often waking up in the […]
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Life Is Back to Normal for 5-Year Stage IV Survivor
jan 19, 2021
“Life is basically back to normal.” These are the words of five-year stage IV pancreatic cancer survivor, Lynne Holcomb, of […]
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A Clinical Trial Gives Mike Time with His Son
jan 6, 2021
He and his young son have now been to all 50 states together.
Survivor Story: Vickie Pinney
dec 21, 2020
I lost my father to pancreatic cancer, and then I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 2020. My tumor […]
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Survivor Makes Positivity the Face of this Disease
dec 16, 2020
Editor’s Note: We are saddened at the passing of Robyn Hobson on February 21, 2023. PanCAN sends deepest sympathies and […]
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“Find a Doctor That Will Fight For You”
nov 30, 2020
Meet Elise Roth Tedeschi, an eight-year pancreatic cancer survivor and co-Affiliate Chair of PanCAN’s Atlanta Affiliate of volunteers. She’s passionate […]
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Robert Tells Fellow Survivors: ‘You Are Not Alone’
nov 25, 2020
Robert Duran was told he had pancreatic cancer – not just once, or twice. Three times. PanCAN’s Patient Services has supported him every step of the way […]
Survivor Story: Bonnie Ryan
nov 24, 2020
As I approach my fifth year of pancreatic cancer survivorship, I have come across a certain, or maybe an uncertain, […]
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Survivor Story: Yoav Hadas
nov 24, 2020
In 2015 at the age of 47, I was diagnosed with stage IV carcinoma, with a tumor in the head […]
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Survivor Story: Robyn Hobson
nov 24, 2020
Editor’s Note: We are saddened at the passing of Robyn Hobson on February 21, 2023. PanCAN sends deepest sympathies and […]
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To celebrate his 20 years of survival in 2020, Mike Fitzpatrick is going big on World Pancreatic Cancer Day (WPCD). […]
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Timing is everything. And when Chuck Paulausky of Chandler, Ariz., happened to turn on “Jeopardy!” one evening last November and […]
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Survivor Story: Jennifer Lambert
oct 14, 2020
A year ago, I had Whipple surgery to remove a pancreatic cancer tumor which had blocked my bile duct causing […]
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Survivor Story: Carol Peter
sep 25, 2020
I am a 61-year-old wife, mother of three daughters and grandmother of two (soon to be three) beautiful grandchildren. They […]
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World Gratitude Day: So Much to Be Grateful For
sep 21, 2020
A Special Note to You on World Gratitude Day We are grateful for the difference you make every day – […]
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Survivor Story: Angella Dixon-Watson
sep 15, 2020
I was diagnosed on June 30, 2016, with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. I had the Whipple surgery, 7.5 months of […]
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Editor’s note: As the world copes with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, pancreatic cancer patients, survivors and loved ones have additional challenges […]
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Editor’s note: As the world copes with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, pancreatic cancer patients, survivors and loved ones have […]
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Editor’s note: Sadly, Joe passed away in 2021. His legacy lives on through all those who support the cause. We […]
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10-Year Survivor on Gifts that Changed Her Life
jun 12, 2020
Editor’s note: National Cancer Survivors Day was June 7, 2020. All week long we’re featuring inspiring stories of survivors nationwide. […]
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Editor’s note: National Cancer Survivors Day was June 7, 2020. All week long we’re featuring inspiring stories of survivors nationwide. […]
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Las Vegas Survivor’s ‘Living Lucky’ Attitude
jun 7, 2020
Editor’s note: Today is National Cancer Survivors Day and we celebrate all pancreatic cancer survivors, whether they were diagnosed today […]
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Love for a Survivor and Pediatrician on Mother’s Day
may 10, 2020
Editor’s note: Today kicks off a series of stories celebrating – and remembering – beloved mothers in honor of Mother’s […]
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Survivor Connecting with Survivors for Hope
apr 29, 2020
Editor’s note: This week, we are telling stories about strong connections developed through the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s (PanCAN) Survivor […]
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Editor’s note: This week, we are telling stories about strong connections developed through the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s (PanCAN) Survivor […]
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Editor’s note: April 19-25 is Volunteer Appreciation Week, and we’re celebrating, recognizing and thanking Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) volunteers […]
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12-year Survivor Funds Research and Gives Hope
mar 9, 2020
Sheila Sky Kasselman doesn’t let challenges due to pancreatic cancer get her down.
Alex Trebek on Life One Year Post-Diagnosis
mar 4, 2020
Alex Trebek shared a via video today to mark one year since he told the world he was fighting pancreatic […]
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Molecular Profiling Gave Patient More Options
feb 24, 2020
Stage IV pancreatic cancer survivor Ken Harding was no longer having great results after nine months on standard chemotherapy. But […]
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Editor’s note: All week long, leading up to Valentine’s Day, we’re sharing stories of love, inspiration and special connections made […]
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Editor’s note: January is Pancreatic Cancer Clinical Trials Awareness Month. Today we share the experience of a stage IV pancreatic […]
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Stage IV Survivor’s Ongoing Clinical Trial Success
jan 14, 2020
Editor’s note: Want to be inspired? Keep reading for a new update on Earl Groce, a stage IV pancreatic cancer […]
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Moments Matter: Christina Helena
dec 16, 2019
Editor’s note: Meet Christina Helena and hear her speak at PurpleStride New York City on April 25, 2020. When she […]
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Moments Matter: Joe LaRose
dec 9, 2019
His wife saved his life. Joe LaRose gives credit for his early pancreatic cancer diagnosis to her – he had […]
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Dag Kittlaus was expecting a routine follow-up message when the doctor’s office called after his physical exam in November 2016. […]
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Famous Rock Band Member Fights Pancreatic Cancer
nov 7, 2019
His father died of pancreatic cancer in 1974. For decades, Frankie Banali knew that the same disease – of which […]
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Survivor Story: Ken Vickers
aug 1, 2019
After 63 years of no personal health issues (broken bones, stays in the hospital, etc.) and riding all over the […]
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Moments Matter: Tom Atwell
jul 8, 2019
Editor’s Note: Last week, we featured PanCAN staff member Maggie Walsh’s story about the beginning of her fundraising career, which […]
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Editor’s Note: Arne Sorenson, CEO of Marriott International, announced his pancreatic cancer diagnosis in May 2019. He recently participated in […]
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Editor’s Note: In honor of Parents Day on Sunday, July 28, we’re re-publishing this article about Michelle Abraham supporting her […]
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In fall 2013, Charles Bogino was going in for what he believed to be a routine exam. His physician was […]
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Editor’s note: In honor of National Cancer Survivors Day® on June 2, 2019, we are highlighting stories of several pancreatic […]
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The morning of Feb. 5, 2016, started like many for Gail. She got up early and headed to the gym […]
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The name Earl Groce may sound familiar to you. In January 2018, the then two-and-a-half-year survivor lent his voice during […]
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Eleven years ago, Scott Strong listened as his doctor told him the news: his neuroendocrine tumor was the most aggressive […]
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Moments Matter: Steven Yedwabnick
may 1, 2019
Steven Yedwabnick will never forget the thrill that shot through his body when he stood up with other 10-year pancreatic […]
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Moments Matter: Gil Marchman
apr 24, 2019
Skydiving is the latest way longtime survivor, volunteer and advocate Gil Marchman, 84, is raising awareness about pancreatic cancer. On […]
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Moments Matter: Maryann Grau
apr 3, 2019
Cancer is no laughing matter, which makes Maryann Grau’s gift of humor invaluable. It pulled her through the stress of […]
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Editor’s note: Pancreatic cancer survivor Roberta Luna contributed to a Huffington Post article about little things people can do to […]
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Editor’s note: Stu Rickerson is a 14-year pancreatic cancer survivor who has served on the Board of Directors for the […]
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When Allison Perlis of Potomac, Md., first began experiencing symptoms of pancreatic cancer in early 2017, she dismissed them as […]
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Moments Matter: John O’Grady
mar 12, 2019
In April 2011, then 56-year-old John O’Grady was undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Several months previously, he had been diagnosed […]
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Moments Matter: Karen Kiernan
mar 6, 2019
Editor’s Note: We are saddened at the passing of Karen Kiernan on September 18, 2024. Karen defied the odds, living […]
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Survivor Story: Arthur Throne
feb 13, 2019
I was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer on Dec. 22, 2016. Most opinions gave me three months to live. […]
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Survivor Story: Lillian Johansen
feb 13, 2019
I have always been fortunate with my health; never really had any serious issues to speak of. I was athletic […]
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Survivor Story: Heriberto Borges
feb 13, 2019
My name is Heriberto Borges. I am 48 years old from Orlando, Florida, and here is my story: On Nov. […]
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Handstands for PanCAN
feb 5, 2019
Editor’s note: We are sad to report that Emily Koski passed away of pancreatic cancer in November 2019. She was […]
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Friday Fix: Chef Serves up Tips for Survivors
jan 18, 2019
Editor’s note: Each week, our Friday Fix series offers pancreatic cancer patients and caregivers a new topic related to health, […]
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Editor’s note: Our “It Starts with Someone” series chronicles all kinds of Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) supporters – volunteers, […]
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Survivor Fights Pancreatic Cancer with Genetics
dec 13, 2018
Elise Tedeschi was shocked when she was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer. She was only 42 years old, enjoying […]
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Survivor Story: Paul Ensor
dec 10, 2018
I was diagnosed two years ago. I had the Whipple procedure, went through chemo and am currently cancer free. This […]
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Survivor Story: Janice Johnson
dec 10, 2018
First, find the doctor who isn’t going to give up. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for a high-volume […]
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Editor’s note: In light of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and our focus on the importance of biomarker and genetic testing, […]
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We Demand Better: Roberta and Vic Luna
nov 28, 2018
Editor’s note: Roberta Luna is a volunteer leader for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), serving as the Mission Chair […]
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When the Patient Advocate Becomes the Patient
nov 15, 2018
Editor’s note: Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA, is the president and CEO of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN). Under her […]
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Survivor Story: David Anderson
nov 9, 2018
My wife and I were full time RVers, traveling around the country in our 40’ motorhome for 13 years. We […]
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I Demand Better: Lisa Beckendorf
nov 2, 2018
Editor’s note: Lisa Beckendorf is a 20-year pancreatic cancer survivor. She serves as PurpleRideStride Chair for the Minnesota Affiliate of […]
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I Demand Better: Barbara Washburn
oct 29, 2018
Editor’s note: Barbara Washburn, a pancreatic cancer survivor, is a volunteer leader for the Atlanta Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer […]
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It Starts with Someone: Susie Lemieux
oct 24, 2018
Editor’s note: This previously published survivor’s story mentions PurpleStride Orange County and the Susie’s Striders Team. This year the event […]
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Editor’s note: Bruce Hill died of pancreatic cancer in January 2019, but we share his story here in hopes that […]
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Nutrition Resources Help Survivor Post-Treatment
oct 9, 2018
Not long after Marie Durbin lost her husband to lung cancer, she started having cancer symptoms of her own. Mild, […]
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It Starts with Someone: Diane Borrison
oct 3, 2018
This past September, long-time volunteer and advocate for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), Diane Borrison, celebrated her 12th year […]
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Survivor Story: Teresa Doyle
oct 2, 2018
I’m a survivor. It will be nine years in January. It all started with digestive issues and within three weeks […]
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It Starts with Someone: Yoshi Majima
sep 26, 2018
Editor’s Note: Our weekly series continues with a story about Yoshi Majima, president of PanCAN Japan. The story is accompanied […]
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Survivors Share Their Journey with Photos and Quotes
sep 24, 2018
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) asked pancreatic cancer survivors to show how they’re living their best lives despite the […]
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When doctors told David Watson of Santa Monica, Calif., that he had type 2 diabetes in November 2016, he couldn’t […]
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‘We Have to Advocate for Ourselves’
sep 10, 2018
A week after his 50th birthday, Robert Ulery visited an urgent care clinic because of serious stomach pain. The issue […]
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Survivor Story: Carmen Tedford
sep 4, 2018
My story is a happy story that will perhaps give someone newly diagnosed or fighting pancreatic cancer some hope. My […]
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It Starts with Someone: Lisa Beckendorf
aug 29, 2018
Editor’s note: Our weekly “It Starts with Someone” series takes a turn this month as we focus solely on people […]
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When PurpleStride Turns into a Family Affair
aug 28, 2018
After a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, Whipple procedure and treatment, Denise Johnson of Kansas City knew she wanted to do something […]
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It Starts with Someone: Scott Nelson
aug 24, 2018
Editor’s note: Our weekly “It Starts with Someone” series takes a turn this month as we focus solely on people […]
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It Starts with Someone: Robert Harris
aug 22, 2018
Editor’s note: Our weekly “It Starts with Someone” series takes a turn this month as we focus solely on people […]
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It Starts with Someone: Kellie Elledge-Bott
aug 20, 2018
Editor’s note: Our weekly “It Starts with Someone” series takes a turn this month as we focus solely on people […]
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Fighting for Their Dad with “No Brakes”
aug 17, 2018
When Kevin Cundiff was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer, his doctor estimated that he had six months to live. […]
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It Starts with Someone: Michael Thiel
aug 15, 2018
Editor’s note: Our weekly “It Starts with Someone” series takes a turn this month as we focus solely on people […]
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It Starts with Someone: Anggie Becorest
aug 13, 2018
Editor’s note: Our weekly “It Starts with Someone” series takes a turn this month as we focus solely on people […]
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Before Allison Lippman of Dallas met her now-husband, she was not convinced she wanted to date anyone. “I was turning […]
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It Starts with Someone: Cathy Quon
aug 8, 2018
Editor’s note: Our weekly “It Starts with Someone” series takes a turn this month as we focus solely on people […]
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Survivor Story: Larry Young
aug 6, 2018
Life was good. I was in Amsterdam, conducting an umpire clinic for the European Baseball Championships with Gus, an umpire […]
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Survivor Gives Voice to His Experience with Tattoos
jul 17, 2018
Editor’s note: Franco Juricic passed away in March 2019 after a second recurrence of pancreatic cancer. His enthusiasm for creating […]
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Survivor Story: Paul Silverstein
jul 6, 2018
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) links me with other survivors and PurpleStride. It also connected me with clinical trials. […]
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“Our kids are the most important parts of our life, and our role as fathers is our most important role, […]
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Survivor Story: Kristin Sine
may 31, 2018
I was 43 years old and healthy, or so I thought. In January 2009, I started having pain in my […]
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Survivor Story: Russell Tallo Sr.
may 31, 2018
I know there are thousands of stories about this subject. However, mine started with a gallbladder operation. When I woke […]
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Survivor Story: Michelle Allison
may 31, 2018
I was a 51-year-old first grade teacher when I saw my doctor over holiday break to see why I wasn’t […]
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Survivor Story: Michael Freeman
may 31, 2018
I was diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma in early 2015. I was given a few months to live. The news devastated […]
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It Starts with Someone: Camille Moses
may 30, 2018
Editor’s note: Our “It Starts with Someone” series chronicles all kinds of Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) supporters – volunteers, […]
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Even after Ralph Cheney’s two bouts of pancreatitis (inflammation) in 2004, local doctors wanted to wait and re-scan in six […]
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Lutathera®: A PNET Survivor Story
mar 29, 2018
A type of treatment that doctors in Europe have administered for more than a decade is now available for use […]
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Survivor Advocates for a Second Opinion
mar 19, 2018
In June 2014, David Wingo went to his doctor about abdominal pain. While investigating the pain, his doctor noticed a […]
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Survivor Story: Claudia McCormick
mar 19, 2018
I’m a survivor of this dreaded disease as of November 2, 2017, after having my second Whipple procedure. The first […]
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A Survivor and Her Pup Pay It Forward
mar 8, 2018
Most people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer are over the age of 60, and more men are diagnosed than women. But, as […]
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From Competitive Swimmer to Cancer Survivor
feb 28, 2018
For Ed Duncan, the four miles it took to set the sub-50-minute record for the fastest Golden Gate Swim in […]
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Survivor Story: James Pelton
feb 22, 2018
In May of 2012, I started experiencing mild stomach upset that I attributed to a juicing regimen I recently started. […]
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Four-year pancreatic cancer survivor David Harper kept a 40-year tradition alive this past weekend by jogging in the Redondo Beach […]
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In September 2015, Earl Groce returned home to North Carolina after driving 5,500 miles cross-country for his first trip to […]
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9-Year Survivor Says Clinical Trials Saved His Life
jan 10, 2018
Richard Blish, a nine-year pancreatic cancer survivor, was diagnosed in 2009 with a marginally resectable tumor and less than a […]
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Survivor Story: Robert Mara
jan 4, 2018
I was never sick a day in my 53-year life. I woke up jaundiced and went to the ER after […]
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Akshay Mehta, MD, was in the middle of performing an orthopedic surgery when his first pancreatic cancer symptom arose. “I […]
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In August 2017, oncologist Mark Lewis, MD, underwent a Whipple surgical procedure for his pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). But his […]
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It Starts with Someone: Yohannes Gebreysus
jul 11, 2017
Yohannes Gebreysus’s someone is his daughter, Absera. In less than two years, she’ll be off to college. It’s hard to […]
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It Starts with a Penni
jul 6, 2017
Editor’s note: The following story from pancreatic cancer survivor Peter Penni recounts how PurpleStride gave him hope in the face […]
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In August of 2015, Hans Johnson was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer. The cancer had already metastasized to his […]
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Susan Zbacnik of Chicago was losing weight without explanation, and she was always tired. Her instincts told her something was […]
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Survivor Embraces Clinical Trials – Ethan Blynn
apr 6, 2017
After months of hearing his wife tell him to go to the gym, Ethan Blynn finally gave in. But then […]
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Editor’s note: Linda Rose passed away in July 2018, but her legacy lives on in part through her personal story. […]
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Joe Heiden, 46, survived the deadliest major cancer, but even more inspiring has been his outlook on life after beating […]
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After seeing her mother and younger sister lose their battles with pancreatic cancer within a span of 12 days, Carolynn […]
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The following blog was written by Jon Luedtke, a three-year pancreatic cancer survivor and the third generation in his family […]
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Scott Nelson is a 12-year pancreatic cancer survivor and research advocate with a goal to make the clinical trials experience […]
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17-Year Survivor Never Stops Learning
jan 19, 2017
Gil Marchman is a 17-year pancreatic cancer survivor. He’s been married for 58 years, plays golf every day during the […]
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Editor’s note: Larry Clark passed away in May 2018, but his legacy lives on through his profound impact on the […]
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In January 2017, Leonora Kaufmann celebrates four years as a pancreatic cancer survivor. “When we received the diagnosis, my husband […]
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Make Every Moment Count
dec 7, 2016
Joe Heiden has climbed mountains, trained for the “American Ninja Warrior” fitness competition and TV show, been a father to […]
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Break through the Fear and the Silence
nov 30, 2016
In November 2016, I became a 20-year pancreatic cancer survivor. But I can still remember my diagnosis as if it […]
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Never. Ever. Give Up.
nov 28, 2016
She is a breast cancer and pancreatic cancer survivor, and is currently fighting bone cancer. Cynthia Ostaszewski knows what it […]
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Survivor Urges Patients to Be Proactive
oct 25, 2016
Editor’s Note: This story was originally published in 2016. As of September 2017, Randi is now an eight-year survivor. Like […]
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In 2013, I was hospitalized three times for pancreatitis. Five months after my symptoms first arose, I learned I had […]
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Editor’s note: In light of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month and November being Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, we are […]
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Updated Survivor Story: Maija Eerkes
jul 12, 2016
Newly retired in December 2005, I was living a “life of leisure” and was looking forward to spending much of […]
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After a routine colonoscopy in July 2014, I was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer on my birthday. I was […]
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When Frannie Flatau was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2007, she never entertained the idea that the disease may kill […]
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Survivor Story: Diane Borrison
jun 15, 2016
On August 8th 2016, I’ll celebrate the TENTH anniversary of my Whipple surgery! Here is my story. I knew something […]
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Survivor Story: Mary Cranny
may 31, 2016
Clinical Trials Offer “Our Best Hope” When Mary Cranny of Seattle, Wash., was diagnosed with stage III pancreatic cancer in […]
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Survivor Story: Jim Hart
may 23, 2016
I was diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma in 2014. As the father of three school-age children, I had too much to […]
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Survivor Story: Larry Clark
mar 24, 2016
Editor’s note: Larry Clark passed away in May 2018, but his legacy lives on through his profound impact on the […]
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Survivor Story: Steve Balogh
mar 8, 2016
A friend once asked me if I believe in miracles… A little over a year ago, I was diagnosed with […]
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Survivor Story: Janine Krawitz
mar 8, 2016
I was first diagnosed with acute pancreatitis in June 2013 that resolved in less than a week. Yet, my doctor […]
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Survivor Story: David Dessert
mar 8, 2016
My journey in December 2010 started with six months of ever-increasing back and abdominal pain. I was serially shuffled from […]
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Survivor Story: Derek Rowell
oct 20, 2015
In the spring of 2014, I was a 70-year-old engineering professor looking forward to retirement at the end of the […]
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Survivor Story: Jenifer Middleton
oct 20, 2015
I am now a 9-year survivor of pancreatic adenocarcinoma – the fast growing kind of pancreatic cancer. But my life […]
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Survivor Story: Suzanne Mitchell
aug 5, 2015
I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in July 2013 and I’ve opted not to have treatment beyond the Whipple surgery […]
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Survivor Story: Schanna Bodkin
jul 5, 2015
Beginning in 2010, I started having pancreatitis, which resulted in two hospital stays. Scans showed an area of concern on […]
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Survivor Story: Mary Beth Campbell
may 22, 2015
I would love to tell you all why I Wage Hope. I am a 13-year survivor of pancreatic cancer. I […]
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Pregnant Mom Learns She Has Pancreatic Cancer
may 1, 2015
Editor’s Note: Everyday Health featured Karalayne Maglinte’s pregnancy and pancreatic cancer battle in the online story “Pregnant With Pancreatic Cancer: […]
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Survivor Story: Melissa Kartasevich
mar 2, 2015
I am 40 years old and a one year-plus survivor. My story starts April 2013. I woke up in the […]
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Survivor Story: John O’Grady
feb 8, 2015
I have always been a person who likes to do things for myself. I love to hike, backpack, kayak and […]
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In the fall of 1999, my brother-in-law was found to have a mass in his pancreas. After an unsuccessful Whipple […]
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Survivor Story: Michael Turek
oct 14, 2014
I was diagnosed on September 30, 2013 with a tumor in the head of the pancreas with blood vessel involvement, […]
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Survivor Story: Julianne Silva
aug 9, 2014
Diagnosed at 23 with pancreatic cancer was not part of my life’s plan. Rather than allowing cancer to get the […]
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Survivor Story: Tonjia Vaughn
aug 8, 2014
I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer only after having the Whipple surgery. The tumor was not showing on any CT […]
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Survivor Story: Mark van der Sluis
aug 7, 2014
In April 2012, I was admitted to the hospital because of my diverticulitis and a CT scan was recommended to […]
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Survivor Story: Joe LaRose
aug 7, 2014
I am a recent survivor — one year to be exact. I have a hard time telling my story, so […]
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Survivor Story: Gary Lipsey
aug 7, 2014
I remember the date and the words spoken by the doctor at a cancer center in Tampa on November 18, […]
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Survivor Story: Shelby Mclean
jul 1, 2014
In 2010, during Thanksgiving dinner, I was having really bad pain in my stomach. I knew something was not right, […]
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Survivor Story: Berenice Yoder
jun 26, 2014
I will be a seven year pancreatic cancer survivor this coming November. When I found out I had cancer, I […]
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Survivor Story: Leslie Bergson
jun 19, 2014
I Walk About two years ago I was diagnosed with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Five weeks later, I underwent a […]
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Survivor Story: Bob Myers
apr 4, 2014
In September of 2009, at the age of 60, a stone lodged in my kidney prompted a painful trip to […]
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The Cheneys
apr 2, 2014
In the fall of 2004, a local doctor told Ralph Cheney he had an “undiagnosed obstruction” in the tail of his pancreas after two bouts of pancreatitis.
Survivor Story: Mike Santina
mar 7, 2014
It all started with an itch. It was February and I had my typical winter cold and the itch started […]
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Survivor Story: Christine Chandler
mar 6, 2014
On June 24, 2007, I turned 45 years old. I had just been diagnosed with diabetes and was starting to […]
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Survivor Story: David Bayer
feb 18, 2014
In January of 2012, just a few months after my 40th birthday, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. At the […]
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Updated Survivor Story: Bill Shrieves
feb 8, 2014
I’m now a three year pancreatic cancer survivor and I want to update my original story from almost three years […]
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Survivor Story: Jen Rossell
feb 4, 2014
I was originally diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer of the duodenum in August, 2013. I had a tumor that was bleeding, […]
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Survivor Story: Eugene (Gene) O’Callaghan
jan 29, 2014
I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in July, 2011. I was playing tennis one day and noticed my urine turned […]
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Survivor Story: Anggie Becorest
dec 16, 2013
It was only this year, when I was fundraising for my first PurpleStride, that the majority of my friends found […]
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The Alien inside me No this is not a mental illness even though I think I would prefer it to […]
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Survivor Stor: Catherine Lusby
nov 24, 2013
In January, 2012, I was having some digestive problems that seemed different from my routine 65-year-old issues. On Monday, January […]
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Survivor Story: William McCoy
nov 21, 2013
In November of 1997, I received my cancer diagnosis; I was 45. My daughters were 3 and 4 years old. […]
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Survivor Story: Robert Blaha
nov 14, 2013
I was diagnosed with stage II pancreatic cancer in October, 2010. I went through several chemotherapy and radiation treatments for […]
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Survivor Story: Russ Carlson
nov 12, 2013
My name is Russ and this past November 3, 2013 was my 13th anniversary as a pancreatic cancer survivor. I […]
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Survivor Story: Virgil Jurek
nov 10, 2013
On February 28, 2004, my wife, Gayl, and I played golf in Destin, Florida and on our trip back to […]
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Survivor Story: Erin Aguirre
nov 5, 2013
On September 3, 2010 I went in for a procedure to remove a gallstone, and woke up to find the […]
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Survivor Story: Kevin Alfont
oct 28, 2013
I’m a 25 year survivor. At the age of 33, in July, 1988, my gallbladder was removed. My bile duct […]
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Survivor Story: Vanessa Morlet
oct 16, 2013
After coming home from a business trip, I felt a little under the weather. I went into work the next […]
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In September, 2009, after four months of doctor visits, blood tests and finally an endoscopic procedure, we were told that […]
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Survivor Story: Elise Tedeschi
oct 13, 2013
This is a story of hope, faith, and miracles. For more than six months I was experiencing the worst back […]
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Survivor Story: Patrick Shea
oct 7, 2013
In August of 2007, I was diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer, due to blood vessel involvement and the size of […]
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Survivor Story: Amanda Billitz
oct 7, 2013
My name is Amanda, I am 28 and a mother of the greatest four-year old. I also have stage IV […]
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Survivor Story: Elizabeth Jurcik
sep 26, 2013
Growing up with a gastroenterologist father, I remember the phone calls where he would lock himself up in a room […]
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Survivor Story: Reisa Babic
sep 9, 2013
I was diagnosed with cancer the day after my son was born, September 6, 2007. At the time, they were […]
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Survivor Story: Tambra Bane
aug 28, 2013
I was diagnosed two years ago, August 2, 2011. I felt very poorly for months. I went to physicians in […]
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Updated Survivor Story: Bela Greenbaum
aug 15, 2013
I’m a Pancreatic Cancer Survivor. Never Give Up and Never Give In – KNOW IT. FIGHT IT. END IT. Thanksgiving, […]
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Updated Survivor Story: Marla Dunn
aug 14, 2013
When I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer I really didn’t know what the pancreas was or what it did in […]
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Survivor Story: Sonya Santiago
jul 22, 2013
In March of 2008, at the age of 45, I experienced the most excruciating abdominal and back pain. I got […]
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Survivor Story: Annie Bado
jul 19, 2013
Hoping my journey gives hope to the many who come here seeking comfort with a later stage pancreatic cancer diagnosis. […]
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Survivor Story: Kaleigh Meyer
jul 19, 2013
On a family vacation in Mexico, at the age of 13, I began to experience a severe pain in my […]
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Survivor Story: Warren Harrison
jul 19, 2013
In the fall of 2011, I noticed that I would feel very full after eating, even a small meal, and […]
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Survivor Story: Thomas (Thom) Pritz
jul 18, 2013
Hospice to Healthy. On December 1, 2004 I was diagnosed with stage IV, inoperable pancreatic cancer — a diagnosis I […]
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Survivor Story: Sandra Frazier
jul 18, 2013
In March of 2011, I was diagnosed with a rare form of pancreatic cancer. I had no warning signs, and […]
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Survivor Story: Lori Matteson
jun 27, 2013
My story is a story of HOPE. I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer when I was 42 years old and […]
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I had just celebrated my 50th birthday with three wonderful trips and thought maybe I had eaten something that was […]
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Survivor Story: Ted Griggs
may 8, 2013
I had the perfect life. I had a huge celebration because I was turning 40. I was blessed with a […]
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I have been blessed to still be alive. I was first diagnosed with pancreas cancer on December 19, 2002 at […]
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Brenda Coleman
apr 2, 2013
“Spreading Hope and Inspiration: One Woman’s Journey with Pancreatic Cancer”
Surviving pancreatic cancer is like walking a tightrope.
Survivor Story: Jayme Kowalski
mar 19, 2013
First of all I want to give thanks to my family. Without their support, I would not have had the […]
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Survivor Story: Mick Spane
mar 11, 2013
It started with a severe stomach ache in August 2008 that hurt through to the back. I was 58 years […]
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Survivor Story: Brint Perera
mar 8, 2013
I had been having infrequent bouts of severe abdominal pain (roughly once or twice each year) over a period of […]
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Survivor Story: Mary Isham
mar 6, 2013
I was shocked when I was diagnosed with a rare neuroendocrine pancreatic tumor right before my 50th birthday. My doctor […]
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Survivor Story: Jacqueline Blake
mar 6, 2013
I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2010. I had never been sick and didn’t have any symptoms of […]
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Survivor Story: Kellie Bott
feb 9, 2013
On January 31, 2001 my work day started as it always had, until lunch time. I had gone to lunch […]
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Survivor Story: Erica Butler
jan 30, 2013
Pancreatic cancer has touched my life in many ways. I was diagnosed in May 2010 and I was very young […]
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Survivor Story: Paul Klemm
jan 15, 2013
Following my Whipple surgery, radiation, chemotherapy (which was unsuccessful), more chemotherapy (also unsuccessful) my oncologist told me I was out […]
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Survivor Story: Jolene Rios
jan 11, 2013
In May of 1992 I was 15 years old and I had been having stomach pain for about one week. […]
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Survivor Story: Janet Literski
jan 10, 2013
Hi, my name is Jan Literski and I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in September 2010. I had a Whipple […]
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Survivor Story: Susan Gorman
jan 7, 2013
My life has been so blessed and facing cancer as a four-time survivor has been the biggest blessing in my […]
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My name is Richard Blish, a three year survivor so far (no clouds on the horizon). I was diagnosed with […]
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My own story seems like it was so long ago when it reality it isn’t; I share it in hopes […]
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My journey with Pancreatic Cancer officially began on March 5, 2007. As I awakened from a biopsy procedure, I was […]
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Survivor Story: Stan Hill
sep 23, 2011
May 20, 1996. D Day. Diagnosis Day. In the spring of 1995 I had my gall bladder removed. Fast forward […]
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Survivor Story: Virginia Perez
aug 25, 2011
Hola, In October 2007 at age 37 I found out I had a tumor in the pancreas. After several tests […]
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Historia de un Sobreviviente: Luis Flores
aug 30, 2010
Mi historia empieza a fines de Mayo del 2007 en Antofagasta (zona minera norte de Chile), allí la gastritis crónica […]
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Survivor Story: Michael Carter
mar 9, 2010
Having grown up in Alabama, I am well acquainted with the month of August. With its meteorological extremes of heat, […]
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Survivor Story: Francis Flatau
jan 30, 2010
I am a SURVIVOR. I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2007 and underwent surgery and chemo and radiation. I […]
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Survivor Story: Earlene Jornt-Girman
jan 12, 2010
In 1994, sixteen years ago, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. That November, I had an eight and a half-hour […]
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Survivor Story: Marcie Reber
dec 15, 2009
My name is Marcie and I am a nine-year survivor of a rare type of pancreatic cancer called neuroendocrine, or […]
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When I turned 50 in 2004, I decided it was time to start doing a better job of monitoring my […]
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Survivor Story: Jennifer Peelman
nov 16, 2009
Two years ago, my life abruptly stopped when a visit to the ER for suspected food poisoning resulted in a […]
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Survivor Story: Chris Calaprice
sep 8, 2009
Hello my name is Chris Calaprice. I am a six year survivor! I am 42 years old and have survived […]
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Historia de un Sobreviviente: Javier Merino
aug 11, 2009
Hola, yo me llamo Javier, hace diez años me dijeron que tenía cáncer pancreático. Mi historia empezó cuando tenía un […]
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Survivor Story: Laurie MacCaskill
jun 26, 2009
Since I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2006 at age 55, I have been fortunate to have had some […]
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Survivor Story: Tammy Andries
jun 26, 2009
My story is one of hope and one of success. However, my story starts out like so many others. Although […]
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Survivor Story: Roberta Luna
jun 26, 2009
In May of 1998, as we were getting ready to attend our son’s graduation from the University of California at […]
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Survivor Story: Kim Duhart
apr 3, 2009
In 1999, at the age of 41, I began a journey that has been the most difficult of my life […]
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Survivor Story: Jay Enoch
apr 16, 2008
My pancreatic cancer was found purely by chance! My father died of an aortic aneurism in his 70s. The abdominal […]
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