Stronger Than Cancer: Inspiring Stories of Resilience and Triumph
Kayi Lewis, a resilient woman from Kentucky, faced a life-altering battle after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on January 23, 2017. Initially experiencing abdominal pain, she sought help at Hardin Memorial Health, where medical tests revealed the shocking news. As her husband, former U.S. Representative Ron Lewis, and daughter explored treatment options, they quickly learned that time was critical in addressing her condition.
A Journey Towards Treatment
The Lewis family discovered that pancreatic cancer statistics were daunting, leading them to seek care at the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Despite their limited knowledge about the facility, they were determined to secure the best treatment for Kayi. Within just two weeks of her diagnosis, they made the trip to Texas, where they met with a specialized team, including Dr. Matthew Katz, a skilled surgeon.
After thorough evaluations, the medical professionals devised a comprehensive treatment plan. Kayi would undergo FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy to reduce the tumor size, followed by radiation therapy. Encouragingly, she could receive her chemotherapy locally, allowing her to stay close to home while still benefiting from the expertise of MD Anderson’s doctors.
Overcoming Challenges
Kayi began her chemotherapy in February and faced several side effects, including hair loss, nausea, and mouth sores. Thankfully, Dr. Lye adjusted her medications to alleviate these symptoms. Throughout her treatment, she and Ron made regular trips to Houston for scans, receiving positive updates about her tumor’s reduction and the absence of cancer spread.
In July, following a promising visit, Kayi enjoyed a month-long break from treatments before returning in August to commence radiation. Their time in Houston took an unexpected turn when Hurricane Harvey struck, forcing them to seek refuge in a nearby hotel as MD Anderson temporarily closed its doors. Once the storm passed, Kayi completed her radiation therapy, returning home in mid-September.
The Whipple Procedure
In October, Kayi returned to Houston for a critical evaluation regarding a Whipple procedure. The surgery took place on October 16, with Dr. Katz performing the operation. Post-surgery, Kayi received fantastic news: her tumor was 99% dead, and the surgical margins were clear.
Kayi expressed immense gratitude for the unwavering support from her family, friends, and church community throughout her journey. Today, she is back to enjoying life, helping her daughter at her shop, gardening, baking, and staying active. Her remarkable recovery highlights the importance of early intervention and specialized care in battling pancreatic cancer.
Sadly, Kayi passed away seven and a half years after her diagnosis. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.
If you or a loved one are seeking a pancreatic cancer expert, consider exploring resources to find specialized care near you. Learn more about finding a professional who can guide you through treatment options.
