Discover How Irreversible Electroporation is Revolutionizing Treatment and Extending Lives
A Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer: Leslie Wineberg’s Story
In a poignant narrative of resilience, Leslie Wineberg faced the daunting diagnosis of stage III pancreatic cancer on August 4, 2015. A previously healthy 58-year-old, Leslie had led an active lifestyle, free of smoking and alcohol, with no significant health issues or family history of cancer. Her unexpected abdominal pain and drastic weight loss prompted her to seek medical attention, leading to a life-altering discovery of her illness.
The Start of a Challenging Treatment Journey
Upon consulting with Allegheny General Hospital, Leslie learned that her tumor was inoperable due to extensive vessel involvement. Dr. Moses Raj, a leading oncologist, laid out a comprehensive treatment plan. On September 10, she began her chemotherapy regimen, which included the potent FOLFIRINOX combination—leucovorin, irinotecan, oxaliplatin, and fluorouracil.
- Side Effects Experienced:
- Neuropathy
- Skin issues
- Mouth sores
- Difficulty swallowing
- Diarrhea and nausea
- Extreme fatigue
Despite the severe side effects, Leslie found ways to manage her discomfort with supportive medications, including Neulasta, which helped bolster her white blood cell counts.
Transition to Radiation Therapy
After completing her chemotherapy on January 20, 2016, Leslie underwent five aggressive sessions of radiation therapy. During this phase, two fiducial markers were placed in her tumor, enhancing the precision of her treatment. The medical team celebrated the effectiveness of the radiation, noting that the markers were responding well, signaling a positive outcome.
Innovative Surgery: Irreversible Electroporation
In a groundbreaking turn of events, Dr. Raj introduced Leslie to a pioneering surgical option known as irreversible electroporation (IRE). This minimally invasive procedure uses electrical pulses to target and destroy cancer cells. Leslie underwent this surgery on April 26, 2016, guided by Dr. Suzanne Schiffman, who had trained under a renowned expert in the field. Though the recovery was challenging, Leslie’s determination shone through as she spent eight days in post-operative care.
Maintenance Chemotherapy and Recurrence
Over a year after her surgery, Leslie remained hopeful despite the tumor’s persistence. She entered a maintenance chemotherapy program, receiving gemcitabine (Gemzar), which was more manageable than her previous treatments. However, she faced a setback in Spring 2017 when a PET scan detected a cancerous lymph node. Following a laparoscopic surgery and further radiation treatment, she was placed back on chemotherapy.
Leslie’s faith and support network played crucial roles in her journey. She often expressed gratitude for her loving family and friends who stood by her during the toughest moments.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Hope
Leslie Wineberg’s journey through pancreatic cancer serves as a testament to strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Her experiences highlight the importance of innovation in cancer treatment and the power of support systems. While she faced numerous challenges, her story offers hope and inspiration to others battling similar diagnoses.
As we reflect on Leslie’s courageous battle, we remember her for the hope she shared with others. Her story is a reminder of the ongoing fight against cancer and the vital role of community and faith in navigating such life-altering journeys.
