Thriving After Two Years: A Survivor’s Inspiring Journey and Ongoing Strength
At the age of 68, Susan Hoopengarner faced a life-altering challenge when she began experiencing severe abdominal pain and noticed unusual floating stools. Initially misdiagnosed with gallstones at her local hospital in Benton City, Washington, Susan’s journey took a dramatic turn after being transferred to a facility in Wenatchee, where the devastating diagnosis of pancreatic cancer was confirmed. The timing was particularly difficult as her husband was also battling cancer and undergoing chemotherapy.
Seeking Comprehensive Care
After receiving her diagnosis in April 2021, Susan and her husband turned to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (now Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center) for a tailored treatment plan. With prior experience at SCCA for her husband’s surgery, they found the facility exceptionally supportive. Their strategy included an initial round of chemotherapy, followed by the Whipple procedure, and concluding with combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Initial diagnosis: Severe abdominal pain and floating stools
- Transfer to Wenatchee: Confirmed pancreatic cancer
- Care provider: Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
Despite losing her sister to pancreatic cancer years earlier, Susan was hopeful. Genetic testing revealed no mutations, adding another layer of complexity to her diagnosis. Meanwhile, her husband faced his own health challenges, leading to a particularly stressful period for the couple.
Navigating the Treatment Process
Susan was under the care of oncologist Dr. Basir Haque and nurse practitioner Karen DuBois at the Kadlec Clinic. Her chemotherapy regimen required her to spend eight hours in the clinic, after which she wore a chemotherapy pack for 48 hours at home. Unfortunately, the side effects were severe, resulting in frequent hospital visits due to complications like diverticulitis.
In September 2021, Susan underwent her Whipple surgery at the University of Washington under the skillful hands of Dr. Jonathan Sham. Although she was initially expected to stay in the hospital for just a week, her slow recovery extended her stay to a month. During this time, Susan struggled to eat, relying on Boost drinks for nutrition while simultaneously worrying about her husband’s deteriorating health.
The surgical team discovered that they could not achieve clear margins on Susan’s tumor, necessitating further treatment with chemotherapy and radiation upon her return home. By January 2022, she completed her radiation therapy with the guidance of Dr. Sherry Zhao at Kadlec.
A Hopeful Outlook
Reflecting on her journey, Susan expressed immense gratitude for the coordinated care she received from her medical team. Now two years post-diagnosis, her scans have shown no signs of cancer, although her healthcare providers warned her of the likelihood of recurrence. Currently, she participates in a study to monitor her blood levels closely, aiming to detect any potential cancer growth early.
- Current status: Two years cancer-free
- Future precautions: Regular blood monitoring and participation in research
Susan’s journey, while fraught with challenges, showcases her resilience and the importance of comprehensive cancer care. With continued vigilance and support, she remains hopeful for the future.
In memory of Susan, who passed away three and a half years after her diagnosis, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family.
