Embracing Life’s Dualities: The Intersection of Sorrow and Joy

Navigating the Challenges of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Survivor’s Journey

In early January 2015, Tom Bajoras faced an unexpected health crisis that would change his life forever. After experiencing alarming symptoms, he was rushed to the hospital, where he received a shocking diagnosis of a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). This rare condition would set him on a challenging path filled with surgeries, innovative treatments, and the ongoing quest for health.

Initial Symptoms and Diagnosis

Tom’s journey began with subtle signs of distress that he initially dismissed. As an avid runner, he noticed a significant drop in his stamina. In December 2014, he struggled to complete a mile without feeling drained. Despite attributing his fatigue to post-holiday indulgence, his symptoms escalated to dizziness and nausea, leading to alarming incidents of vomiting blood. By January 2, 2015, he was hospitalized, where an upper GI endoscopy unveiled a mass on his pancreas, diagnosed as a non-functional PNET.

• Key Events:
  • December 2014: Initial symptoms of fatigue and dizziness.
  • January 2, 2015: Hospitalization and diagnosis of PNET.

Aggressive Treatment Approach

On January 29, 2015, Tom underwent a significant surgical procedure to remove the primary tumor, along with his spleen, gallbladder, and portions of his liver. The operation was deemed successful by Dr. Ronald Busuttil at UCLA Medical Center, who assured Tom’s wife, “I got it all.” However, just two months later, follow-up scans revealed new tumors in Tom’s liver, prompting a series of treatments that included lanreotide injections aimed at controlling tumor growth.

Despite the initial setbacks, Tom remained determined. He continued to undergo MRI scans every three months, but the results were disheartening as tumor numbers increased. By early 2016, he had to undergo radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to eliminate the liver tumors, yet the situation persisted.

Exploring New Options: Clinical Trials

In a bid to combat the relentless progression of his disease, Tom participated in a clinical trial for a Gallium-68 dotatate scan, which is known for its ability to detect somatostatin receptors on tumors. The scan results were promising, indicating a high receptor expression, making Tom a suitable candidate for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). Although PRRT had not yet received FDA approval in the U.S. at that time, Tom was granted access to this advanced treatment under the Texas Right to Try law.

After four rounds of PRRT therapy in 2017, Tom received life-changing news: six months post-treatment, his scans showed no evidence of PNET. The relief was immense, but Tom remained realistic, aware that cancer often has a way of returning.

The Resurgence of PNET

By 2019, Tom’s cancer reemerged, with new lesions detected in his bones and liver. Fortunately, advancements in treatment meant he could receive PRRT again—this time, close to home at UCLA. His optimism was rewarded once more when an MRI in October revealed no evidence of disease. While he awaited the results of a follow-up Ga-68 scan, Tom reflected on the rollercoaster of emotions that come with battling cancer.

• Treatment Timeline:
  • 2015: Surgery and initial treatment with lanreotide.
  • 2016: Radiofrequency ablation procedures.
  • 2017: Successful PRRT treatment.
  • 2019: Cancer resurgence and subsequent PRRT therapy at UCLA.

Embracing Uncertainty and Finding Inspiration

Living with cancer has taught Tom to embrace uncertainty. He acknowledges that life’s unpredictability extends beyond his diagnosis. This journey has strengthened his faith, deepened his relationships, and inspired his creativity. As an artist, he recorded a CD titled Surprised By Beauty, encapsulating the complex emotions of his experience—combining themes of sorrow and joy in a unique musical narrative.

Tom’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of adversity. His commitment to fighting PNET serves as an inspiration to others navigating similar challenges. As he continues his journey, he remains hopeful for new treatments and a future filled with life’s unexpected beauty.

For more insights on managing cancer and staying informed about potential treatments, explore resources from the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and UCLA Health.