Transforming My Life: A Journey to Positive Change
Finding a Diagnosis: A Journey through Pancreatic Cancer
In January 2020, I experienced an all-too-familiar sharp pain in my lower left abdomen, signaling a diverticulitis flare-up. Having endured a similar episode in August 2019, I was no stranger to this discomfort. However, this time I encountered a new physician in my doctor’s absence, and after a brief consultation, I was advised to rest and take medication. Little did I know, this would lead to a life-altering diagnosis.
Unraveling the Mystery
After four days of persistent pain that typically subsided within hours, I reached out to my doctor’s office. Following their recommendation, I headed to the emergency room for a CT scan. Initially, the attending physician confirmed diverticulitis, bringing me a moment of relief. Yet, when he mentioned the possibility of an overnight stay for observation, my heart sank. My innocent question, "How bad can this be?" set off a chain of events that would change my life forever.
The doctor proceeded to ask about any previous pain or issues related to my pancreas. I answered "no" to every question, unaware that I had been living with chronic pancreatitis. The shocking revelation came when he informed me of a significant calcification on my pancreas, indicating severe damage.
Seeking Answers
The following day, I made an appointment with my long-time physician, someone familiar with my active lifestyle as a dedicated runner and yoga enthusiast. However, I was met with disappointment and admonitions about my health choices. His remarks about my lifestyle left me questioning everything I had known about my health.
An immediate MRI followed, during which the technician’s concern about my pain hinted at something more serious. I reached out to my doctor for clarification, only to find that my original diagnosis remained unchanged. Frustrated with the lack of urgency, I sought a second opinion at the University of Michigan, where I was seen within a week.
A New Perspective
At U of M, I learned that my pancreas issues weren’t solely due to lifestyle choices. I met with a dietitian and had numerous lab tests conducted, all of which returned normal results. The plan was straightforward: adopt a diet low in fats, eliminate alcohol, and minimize processed foods.
However, the situation quickly escalated. The follow-up scan revealed a 3.2 cm tumor hidden within the calcification—a potentially malignant pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). My fear intensified as I processed this new information, but I was now armed with a dedicated medical team.
Charting a Path Forward
The next steps included a biopsy and a consultation with a pancreatic surgeon. Although the biopsy results were inconclusive, my doctor suspected the tumor’s neuroendocrine nature, indicating a rare form of pancreatic cancer. The slow growth of the tumor suggested that it had been developing for years, aligning with my history of digestive issues.
During the pandemic, I met my pancreatic surgeon virtually. I was given two options: monitor the tumor or undergo a Whipple procedure, a significant surgery to remove affected parts of the pancreas. Understanding the mental toll of living with a tumor, I opted for the Whipple.
The Whipple Procedure and Recovery
On May 22, 2020, I finally met my surgeon before undergoing the lengthy surgery. The operation was a success; they removed the tumor with negative margins, although two lymph nodes tested positive for cancer.
Surprisingly, my recovery was smoother than anticipated. Just one day post-surgery, I was walking, and by the third day, I completed 4,000 steps. My surgeon was astonished at my progress, noting that such recovery after a Whipple procedure was not common.
Back to Running
Fast forward to May 22, 2021, I found myself at the starting line of a half-marathon, determined to finish. Having completed 14 half-marathons prior to my surgery, I set a personal goal for this race. To my amazement, I achieved my fourth-best time, a testament to my resilience.
Today, nearly two years post-surgery, I have seen significant improvements in my health. The digestive issues, skin sensitivity, and fatigue have vanished. While some stamina issues linger, I attribute them to various factors, including my encounter with Covid-19.
Embracing Life After Cancer
The Whipple procedure has been life-changing for me. My quality of life is better now than before, and I owe it to my determination, gratitude, and the support of my medical team. If faced with a similar diagnosis, know that opting for a Whipple is a carefully considered decision—but it may just be the key to reclaiming your health and vitality.
