Strategic Steps to Secure Your Future: A Comprehensive Planning Guide
In a gripping journey through illness and hope, Amy Zaterman, diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer (PNET) at just 30 years old, shares her transformative story of resilience and recovery. Her battle began with alarming digestive issues that led to a devastating diagnosis, ultimately reshaping her life and igniting her passion for advocacy. This article delves into her experience, treatments, and the indomitable spirit she embodies.
The Start of a Life-Changing Diagnosis
In October 2014, Amy found herself grappling with severe health issues shortly after relocating from New York to Denver, Colorado. Despite being fit and healthy, she experienced troubling symptoms, including persistent diarrhea. Initially dismissed as stress-related irritable bowel syndrome, her condition quickly escalated, culminating in excruciating pain that prompted emergency medical intervention. A series of tests revealed a shocking truth: a significant mass in her pancreas and numerous lesions in her liver indicated advanced cancer.
- Diagnosis Date: October 21, 2014
- Age at Diagnosis: 30
- Initial Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss
Coping with the Diagnosis
Amy vividly recalls the moment she learned about her diagnosis. As she prepared for an indefinite hospital stay, she felt an overwhelming mix of emotions. Despite the bleak prognosis shared by her doctor, she resolved to fight back. With the support of her fiancé and family, Amy approached her cancer journey with determination, ready to seek treatment options that could improve her quality of life.
Assembling a Medical Dream Team
Following her hospital stay, Amy connected with leading specialists in pancreatic cancer. One of her key allies, Dr. Allen Cohn from Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers, agreed to oversee her treatment alongside a neuroendocrine-focused team. Amy’s proactive approach led her to Dr. Michelle Kim at Mount Sinai Hospital, who resonated with her desire to change the narrative for those diagnosed with PNETs. Together, they embarked on a tailored treatment plan.
The Treatment Journey Begins
Amy’s treatment commenced with a comprehensive assessment and an aggressive chemotherapy regimen. She underwent CAPTEM, a combination of Xeloda and Temodar, which significantly impacted her daily life. The side effects were harsh, yet she remained focused on her health goals. Additionally, Amy and her fiancé decided to freeze embryos, acknowledging the potential impact of her treatment on future family planning.
- Chemotherapy Regimen: CAPTEM
- Key Side Effects: Nausea, fatigue, weight changes
Surgical Interventions and New Hope
After enduring multiple treatment cycles, Amy’s health showed signs of improvement, leading to a critical surgery on September 25, 2015. Dr. Richard Schulick successfully performed a pancreatectomy, removing the primary tumor while minimizing the spread to her liver. This pivotal moment marked a significant turning point in her battle against cancer.
Exploring Innovative Therapies
In late 2015, Amy’s journey continued with new treatments, including peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). Although not yet FDA-approved, this innovative approach had shown promise in Europe. Amy embraced this therapy, which required careful monitoring and isolation post-treatment. With manageable side effects, it brought her closer to achieving a more stable health status.
A Major Breakthrough
By early 2017, amid ongoing treatments, Amy faced a new challenge with avascular necrosis in her shoulder, a side effect of her prior therapies. However, she also experienced a remarkable response to her treatments—80% of her liver tumors had disappeared. This unexpected improvement led her medical team to reconsider the necessity of a liver transplant, viewing her condition as chronic rather than critical.
Reclaiming Life Beyond Cancer
With renewed vigor, Amy focused on reclaiming her life. She adopted healthier habits, began exercising, and sought therapy to address the emotional toll of her journey. While navigating through personal changes, including a new relationship, she found joy in the present moment, shifting her mindset from survival to thriving.
- Current Treatment: Monthly Sandostatin injections, regular scans, and supportive medications
- Personal Growth: Emphasizing health and well-being, rebuilding her life
Looking Forward: A New Chapter
Today, Amy is filled with gratitude for her experiences and the time she has gained. She and her husband are now expecting a baby girl through surrogacy, symbolizing hope and a new beginning. Amy’s story exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity, reminding us that life can flourish even in the darkest times.
Watch Amy’s inspiring journey in her video, “I’m Going to Beat This.”
Amy’s battle against cancer is not just a story of survival; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s strength and the power of hope. Her commitment to living life fully and advocating for others facing similar challenges continues to inspire many.
For more insights on her journey, explore her video here.
