Serendipitous Discovery: How Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer Can Save Lives
A Surprising Diagnosis: Sandra Wilke’s Journey with Pancreatic Cancer
In a twist of fate, Sandra Wilke discovered her battle with distal pancreatic tail cancer in November 2012, thanks to a routine heart scan. This unexpected diagnosis arose while she was addressing her atrial fibrillation, a condition that had plagued her for years. With a family history rich in heart disease and diabetes, the revelation of cancer took her completely by surprise.
Surgical Intervention for a Life-Saving Procedure
After her diagnosis, Sandra made a crucial choice regarding her surgical care. She opted for Dr. Emily Winslow at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, who performed the operation on December 5, 2012. The results of the pathology report indicated that she had stage II adenocarcinoma, a type of pancreatic cancer that comprises a staggering 85% of pancreatic tumors. During the surgery, Dr. Winslow removed the tail of Sandra’s pancreas, her spleen, the left adrenal gland, and several nearby lymph nodes. Fortunately, her gallbladder had been previously removed.
Prioritizing Quality of Life Over Quantity
Sandra emphasizes the importance of quality of life in her journey. Her oncologist, Dr. Daniel Mulkerin from the University of Rochester Medical Center, worked closely with her to establish a treatment plan. Sandra expressed her preference for living well over living longer and was cautious about chemotherapy. Although some of her five children urged her to undergo treatment, she ultimately decided to proceed with three months of gemcitabine injections. This period was challenging, as she experienced heightened sensitivity to smells, headaches, and a sense of isolation that led to feelings of depression. Sandra also opted out of scans unless her CA 19-9 blood test indicated otherwise.
Contributing to Cancer Research for a Brighter Future
As the only person in her family diagnosed with cancer, Sandra felt compelled to learn more about the disease. She discovered the National Familial Pancreas Tumor Registry at Johns Hopkins Hospital, which focuses on understanding the genetic and environmental factors associated with pancreatic cancer. By providing blood samples and participating in ongoing surveys, Sandra hopes her contributions will aid researchers in discovering new detection methods and understanding the disease better.
As December 2017 marked five years since her surgery, Sandra adopted healthier eating habits to promote her well-being. However, a sudden weight loss of 33 pounds in just three and a half months raised concerns about a potential cancer recurrence. Thankfully, scans showed no signs of cancer, but Sandra remains vigilant and cautious, knowing the specter of cancer is never far behind.
The Significance of Family Medical History
Understanding your family’s medical history is crucial for early detection and prevention of diseases like cancer. For insights into the importance of family health history, check out more information here.
In sharing her story, Sandra Wilke inspires others to prioritize their health and stay informed about their medical backgrounds, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and better health outcomes.
