Confronting the Challenge: My Battle Against Pancreatic Cancer

In the summer of 2009, Gary Carmichael was living a seemingly normal life until unexpected health issues struck. At 58, he began experiencing troubling symptoms that prompted him to seek medical advice. Initially, over-the-counter medications offered little relief, but a visit to his primary care physician marked the beginning of a long and arduous journey that would ultimately lead to a life-changing diagnosis and a battle against pancreatic cancer.

The Start of a Health Crisis

Gary’s troubles began with gastrointestinal discomfort, leading him to try various antacids and reflux remedies. After a few months of persistent issues and a noticeable weight loss of about 20 pounds, his wife encouraged him to consult a gastrointestinal specialist. They were hopeful for a simple diagnosis, unaware that cancer would soon alter their lives forever.

• Initial symptoms: Gastrointestinal issues and weight loss
• Family history: Gary’s father had battled cancer, raising concerns but not suspicion of a similar fate.

A Shocking Diagnosis

While vacationing in Blue Ridge, Georgia, in late August, Gary’s health took a serious turn when he developed jaundice, prompting an urgent visit to his doctor. A stent was placed to relieve a blocked bile duct, leading to a devastating revelation: a tumor the size of a quarter was found on his pancreas. The prognosis was grim, with survival rates for pancreatic cancer hovering around 5%. This news was a stark contrast to Gary’s previous 33 years as a police officer, facing danger daily without fearing for his own life.

The Complex Whipple Procedure

Faced with the daunting prospect of cancer surgery, Gary opted for the Whipple procedure to remove the tumor. This complex operation, performed by Dr. Kenneth Jones at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida, involved assessing whether the cancer had spread before proceeding. After a tense 10-hour surgery in Fall 2009, the news was hopeful; the tumor was successfully removed, and no signs of metastasis were found.

• Surgery duration: 10 hours
• Post-surgery weight: Gary dropped to 170 lbs after a challenging recovery.

Battling Through Chemotherapy and Radiation

Recovery was anything but easy. For the next several months, Gary underwent a rigorous treatment regimen that included chemotherapy starting on December 31, 2009. He initially received Gemzar but had to switch to FOLFOX due to severe side effects. Gary described these treatments as debilitating, often rendering him non-functional and deeply miserable.

• First chemotherapy treatment: December 31, 2009
• Treatment duration: Multiple rounds until August 2010

A New Hope: Clinical Trials

In 2011, Gary discovered a groundbreaking clinical trial for a pancreatic cancer vaccine at The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins. With a unique set of qualifications, he became a participant in this promising study, commuting every 90 days for treatment over a period of 18 months. While the trial was costly and not covered by insurance, Gary’s commitment underscored his determination to survive.

The Ups and Downs of Survival

Years passed, and in 2015, a small mass found on Gary’s lower right lung raised alarms. After an unsuccessful biopsy, a subsequent procedure confirmed it was not a recurrence of pancreatic cancer but rather non-small cell lung cancer. Despite never being a smoker, this new diagnosis challenged him again.

• New cancer type: Non-small cell lung cancer
• Surgery: Successfully removed lung lobe using robotic surgery at Orange Park Medical Center.

Celebrating Milestones

After overcoming multiple health challenges, Gary regained his strength and resumed riding his Harley motorcycle, enjoying cross-country trips with friends and family. In 2014, he celebrated five years of being cancer-free with a memorable trip to Alaska—a milestone he cherishes deeply.

Today, at 69 years old, Gary is proud to claim almost eleven years of survival since his pancreatic cancer diagnosis. His journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the importance of seeking medical help promptly.

Embrace life and cherish every moment, he advises.

For those facing similar battles, remember: each day is a gift worth celebrating.