How Genetic Testing Revolutionized My Personalized Treatment Journey

A Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer: One Man’s Story of Resilience and Hope

In March 2021, just as Ryan Dwars was preparing for a family getaway to the Gulf Coast, he experienced an unexpected health crisis. What began as discomfort led him to the emergency room, where a series of tests revealed not only blood clots but also a mass on his pancreas. This pivotal moment marked the start of a challenging journey through pancreatic cancer.

A Shocking Diagnosis

At the age of 36, Ryan was confronted with the harsh reality of his diagnosis: pancreatic adenocarcinoma. After being referred to the University of Iowa Health Care, further testing confirmed suspicions of cancer, exacerbated by a family history that heightened his concerns. Ryan’s uncle had faced a similar battle with pancreatic cancer three years prior, amplifying the fear that genetic factors were at play.

• Key Findings:
  • Multiple genetic mutations identified, including BRCA2 and a KRAS variant.
  • Underwent platinum-based chemotherapy as part of his treatment plan.
  • Enrolled in a clinical trial featuring autologous bone marrow stem cell infusion.

Navigating Treatment Plans

With a treatment strategy set in motion, Ryan began chemotherapy on April 1, 2021. The initial plan involved six rounds of FOLFIRINOX, a regimen known for its efficacy against tumors like his. However, complications arose when his platelet count dropped, necessitating surgery to remove part of his pancreas along with his spleen and gallbladder.

Despite facing numerous side effects such as cold sensitivity and neuropathy, Ryan remained optimistic. After nine rounds of treatment, he received encouraging news: a Molecular Residual Disease test indicated no signs of cancer in his blood.

Facing Recurrence with Determination

In November 2022, Ryan’s journey took a challenging turn when scans revealed that the cancer had metastasized to his liver. With a renewed urgency, he sought specialists at Penn Medicine and initiated a new chemotherapy regimen combining gemcitabine and cisplatin. Following successful treatment, he underwent stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), targeting the liver tumor with precision.

• New Treatment Approaches:
  • Began taking olaparib to address his BRCA2 mutation, though it proved ineffective.
  • Consulted with Dr. Ryan Carr at the Mayo Clinic, who introduced a different chemotherapy combination.

A New Hope Through Clinical Trials

Ryan’s perseverance led him to participate in the SHARON clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering in June 2024. This innovative trial combines chemotherapy with stem cell therapy and has provided him with renewed hope. Although he experienced nausea and fatigue, he remained committed to the process, staying in New York while family members cared for his children.

Looking Toward the Future

As he returned home, Ryan underwent scans to monitor the trial’s effectiveness, revealing new spots on his liver. While uncertainty looms, he remains hopeful, working with his new oncologist, Dr. Naomi Fei. Ryan’s positive outlook and determination to maintain a high quality of life have been crucial throughout his battle with cancer.

• Words of Encouragement:
  • Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.
  • Encourages connections with fellow cancer fighters and survivors for support.

Ryan Dwars’ story serves as a beacon of hope for those facing pancreatic cancer. His journey underscores the significance of resilience and the power of community in navigating the turbulent waters of cancer treatment. With advancements in research and therapies, Ryan believes that hope is on the horizon for himself and others in similar battles.