I’m a survivor of this dreaded disease as of November 2, 2017, after having my second Whipple procedure. The first surgery in March 2017 was unsuccessful, and I was told I only had months to live. I became despondent and depressed at first, then I pulled myself together and said, “I will not accept this prognosis!” After that, something awoke inside me, and with everything I had, I fought pancreatic cancer. Now I am cancer free. I was determined to try anything and everything to defeat this disease! I have been surrounded by family and friends, and I thank God for my great support system.
I now am an advocate and helper when someone contacts me to learn about my experiences during my battle. I will be at the next Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., in June and will participate in PurpleStride this year! I now know what my mission in life is: to help, speak up, inspire and let survivors know they must fight and never give up!
My PanCAN Patient Services Case Manager at the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) has always been great and helpful when I’ve called. Because of that, PanCAN, I love you. I’m so grateful for the organization, and know that I could not have done this without them. My Case Manger provided the information that helped me find the right surgeon who was able to do my successful Whipple procedure.