Empowering My Life: Crafting Quality Moments Through Personal Choices
Margo Chilcott’s journey with pancreatic cancer began when she was 79 years old, a diagnosis that would change her life forever. A vibrant individual, Margo had enjoyed a fulfilling career and remained active in her community until health issues began to surface in early 2022. In this personal account, she shares her experience from diagnosis to treatment, shedding light on her choices and the importance of support during challenging times.
A Sudden Diagnosis
Margo’s troubles started with digestive issues that she initially attributed to dietary changes. As a dedicated Catechism teacher and an active individual, the sudden inability to enjoy her usual meals was alarming. After persistent pain in her back led her to seek medical attention at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, a series of tests revealed the shocking news: she was diagnosed with stage II pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
- Symptoms: Severe pain and digestive problems
- Initial Response: Difficulty accepting the diagnosis
- Medical Intervention: Comprehensive testing followed by a diagnosis
Navigating Treatment Options
Upon entering the hospital for further evaluation, Margo initially consented to a treatment plan that included surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, after reflecting on the implications of those treatments, she decided to prioritize her quality of life.
“I realized I wanted to focus on living fully rather than undergoing a potentially debilitating treatment,” Margo explained. Her goal was to stay active and engaged with her family, particularly her great-grandchildren.
- Initial Plan: Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation
- Change of Heart: Opted for surgery only
- Focus: Quality of life over extensive treatment
Support from Family and Healthcare Team
Margo’s choice was not made lightly; she engaged in numerous discussions with her family and her oncologist, Dr. David Kwon. He provided valuable insights, emphasizing that while surgery alone might result in a higher risk of recurrence, he would support her decision.
“Ultimately, I wanted to live my life on my terms,” she reflected. The backing from her family and medical team was instrumental in her journey.
- Key Support: Family discussions and medical advice
- Doctor’s Insight: Acknowledgment of risks but respect for her choices
- Community Support: Emotional backing during her treatment
Embracing Life After Surgery
Margo underwent a distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy in August 2022. The recovery was swift, and by October, she was back to teaching and engaging with her community. As she looks forward to welcoming her fourth great-grandchild in October 2024, Margo cherishes her time spent with family and friends, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.
- Surgery Date: August 2022
- Return to Normalcy: Teaching and community engagement resumed by October
- Family Milestone: Anticipating her fourth great-grandchild
Wisdom for Others Facing Cancer
Margo believes in the power of self-care and maintaining a positive outlook. She recalls her mother’s advice: “If you get up, clean up, and look good, you will feel good, too.” This mantra has guided her through the ups and downs of her journey with cancer.
Her advice to others battling similar challenges is straightforward: stay informed, lean on your support system, and remain proactive in your treatment decisions.
- Personal Philosophy: Stay active, positive, and engaged
- Advice for Patients: Research, communicate, and trust your instincts
Margo’s experience serves as a testament to resilience and the importance of making choices aligned with one’s values. Her story is not just about coping with illness; it’s about embracing life and the support that surrounds us during difficult times.
