Why Setting Goals Beats Sticking to Stages: Unlock Your Path to Success!
In a heartwarming journey marked by resilience and determination, Heather Sanderson, a 58-year-old mother of five and grandmother, faced an unexpected battle with cancer. After relocating to Berea, Ohio, to support her ailing parents, Heather’s life took a dramatic turn when persistent stomach pain led to a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in early 2021. Rather than allowing this diagnosis to define her, she embraced a proactive approach, setting her sights on recovery and regaining her health.
Initial Diagnosis and Treatment Goals
After her alarming diagnosis, Heather sought treatment at the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland. Her oncologist, Dr. David Bajor, opted for a goal-oriented strategy rather than focusing solely on staging her cancer. This fresh perspective aligned perfectly with Heather’s active lifestyle, motivating her to set achievable milestones on her road to recovery.
Unbeknownst to her at the time, Heather was facing stage III pancreatic cancer, with her tumor dangerously close to being inoperable. To combat this, she partnered with Dr. Lee Ocuin, a surgical oncologist, to create a plan aimed at making surgery a reality.
Enrolling in a Clinical Trial
Heather’s treatment took a pivotal turn when she enrolled in the CASE2218 clinical trial, testing a novel drug known as CPI-613. This trial involved a combination of CPI-613 and FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy, focusing on treating localized and unresectable pancreatic cancer. Throughout her treatment, Heather maintained her commitment to fitness, continuing her CrossFit regimen five times a week.
By the end of November 2021, after six months of chemotherapy and four weeks of radiation, she achieved her first major goal: surgery was scheduled for February 9, 2022.
A Challenging Surgical Procedure
On the day of her surgery, Heather faced a complex challenge. The tumor was not only large but also situated at the critical junction of the superior mesenteric artery and mesenteric vein. This vascular area is crucial for blood flow to the pancreas and intestines, making the surgery particularly intricate. The Whipple procedure that she underwent lasted an exhausting eleven hours, requiring the surgeon to meticulously detach the tumor from the artery and reconstruct the affected vein.
Despite the difficulties, including nearly losing her life during recovery and receiving 35 units of blood, Heather’s determination saw her through. By March 24, she was discharged, ready to take on the next phase of her journey.
Resuming an Active Life
Heather’s recovery was marked by an unwavering commitment to her goals, particularly returning to CrossFit. By June, she was back in the gym, initially struggling to lift a mere 15-pound barbell. Fast forward to December 2022, and Heather proudly reported her progress: she could bench press 90 pounds, back squat 105 pounds, and deadlift 165 pounds. Additionally, she was climbing a 15-foot rope multiple times—an impressive feat for anyone, let alone a cancer survivor.
Inspiring Others
Today, Heather’s mission is clear: she aims to inspire hope and encourage others facing similar challenges. Her journey showcases the power of faith, an active lifestyle, innovative treatment options, and the support of dedicated medical professionals. With gratitude for her progress and the community that supported her, Heather is determined to keep living life to the fullest.
By sharing her story, Heather hopes to motivate others, proving that resilience and a positive mindset can lead to remarkable outcomes even in the face of adversity.
