Building Your Success: Why a Strong Treatment Team is Essential for Optimal Health

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Building Your Success: Why a Strong Treatment Team is Essential for Optimal Health

In a surprising turn of events, a routine visit to the doctor for stomach discomfort led to a life-altering diagnosis of pancreatic cancer for 79-year-old Wayne Mullis. Initially suspecting irritable bowel syndrome, Mullis’s doctor recommended further investigation. An endoscopy revealed the shocking news in September 2018. Fortunately, Mullis’s journey took a positive turn as he sought treatment from the HonorHealth Research and Innovation Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona, where a dedicated medical team rallied to provide the best possible care.

Discovering the Diagnosis

After experiencing ongoing stomach issues, Mullis was directed to see a gastroenterologist, who performed an endoscopy. The results confirmed his fears: he had pancreatic cancer. Despite the daunting diagnosis, Mullis was determined to fight back. He consulted with Dr. Erkut Borazanci, who assured him that there was still hope for recovery and that it wasn’t too late to take action.

Comprehensive Treatment Plan

At HonorHealth, a specialized team developed a tailored treatment approach that included both chemotherapy and radiation to reduce the tumor size before surgery. Although Mullis didn’t qualify for a specific clinical trial, Dr. Borazanci initiated a robust treatment regimen featuring gemcitabine, cisplatin, nab-paclitaxel, and paricalcitol (a form of vitamin D). He also underwent stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) with the expertise of Dr. Steven Sckolnik.

  • Treatment Highlights:
    • Chemotherapy and radiation were employed to shrink the tumor.
    • A successful Whipple procedure was performed on January 4, 2019.
    • The surgery utilized a minimally invasive technique, and Mullis was discharged after just eight days.

The Whipple Surgery

Thanks to the effectiveness of the initial treatments, Mullis was cleared for surgery. He underwent the Whipple procedure, a complex operation aimed at removing cancer from the pancreas. The results were promising—his pathology report showed no signs of active cancer, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey.

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Thriving After Treatment

Today, Mullis maintains a proactive approach to his health, returning to HonorHealth every two months for check-ups. He feels revitalized, continuing to work as a brokerage manager while incorporating regular exercise into his routine through walking and gym sessions.

"I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to find the right medical team," Mullis shares. The support he received from the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at HonorHealth was instrumental in his recovery, and he encourages others facing similar challenges to seek expert care.

For those seeking guidance or treatment options, exploring resources to find a pancreatic cancer specialist can be a vital step in the journey toward recovery.

If you or someone you know needs assistance finding an expert in pancreatic cancer, learn more here.

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