Pancreatic Cancer: Recognizing Its Symptoms and How They Mimic Other Health Issues
Cynthia “Cindy” Lopez, a courageous 51-year-old from Pine Island, Florida, faced a daunting challenge when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Her journey began in 2014, marked by persistent lower back pain and irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. After a series of medical evaluations, a tumor was discovered on her pancreas, setting the stage for an incredible fight against this formidable disease.
Unraveling the Diagnosis: A Tumor Discovered
Cindy’s health struggles intensified when she visited her primary care doctor on April 29, 2015, to discuss her symptoms. Following her physician’s recommendation, she underwent an ultrasound, which revealed a tumor on her pancreas just minutes after the procedure. An MRI was quickly scheduled, confirming the tumor’s presence. It was located on the back of her pancreas, likely contributing to her back pain.
In early May, a biopsy verified the cancer diagnosis, which was preliminarily staged at III due to uncertainty about lymph node involvement. Her local oncologist, Dr. Frank Rodriguez, referred her to specialists at Moffitt Cancer Center and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center for advanced care.
Treatment Journey: Chemotherapy and Radiation
After consulting with Dr. Pamela Hodul at Moffitt, Cindy was advised to undergo a combination of gemcitabine and radiation to shrink the tumor. However, with encouragement from her local oncologist, she opted for the FOLFIRINOX regimen, a potent chemotherapy protocol. Commencing treatment on June 2, she managed to tolerate the chemotherapy well and proceeded to radiation therapy in August, aimed at making surgery feasible.
On September 29, Cindy underwent a successful surgical procedure to remove the tumor and her spleen. The operation involved the removal of 13 lymph nodes, one of which tested positive for cancer. Following a six-week recovery period, she resumed FOLFIRINOX treatments, concluding in January of this year.
Triumph Over Cancer: A New Lease on Life
Now cancer-free, Cindy reflects on her challenging journey with optimism. Although she experienced neuropathy in her feet, it has significantly improved, while the sensation in her hands has completely returned to normal. Remarkably, her overall health has improved, with her taste buds recovering and regaining eight of the 34 pounds lost during treatment.
Thankfully, her health insurance covered her extensive treatment, alleviating financial stress during this difficult time. Despite not knowing if genetic testing was performed on her tumor, Cindy is grateful for each day and the chance to share her story.
A Message of Hope and Awareness
Cindy expressed her gratitude for organizations like the Lustgarten Foundation, which tirelessly work to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research. She has become an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment options available for those diagnosed with this aggressive disease.
As we remember Cindy, who passed away three years after her diagnosis, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the fight against pancreatic cancer and the need for continued support and research.
For more information on pancreatic cancer symptoms, visit Lustgarten Foundation.
