Embracing Life’s Little Joys: The Beauty of Cherishing Simple Pleasures
A Journey of Hope: Elizabeth O’Connor’s Battle Against Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer
Just two weeks after giving birth to her second child, Elizabeth O’Connor faced a life-altering diagnosis: stage IV pancreatic cancer. At just 31 years old, this shocking news marked the beginning of a lengthy and challenging health journey. Elizabeth’s experience, filled with ups and downs, showcases her resilience and the advancements in cancer treatment.
Early Signs and Diagnosis
During her pregnancy, Elizabeth started experiencing unsettling symptoms, including nausea, unusual fatigue, and significant weight loss. Despite her OB/GYN’s vigilance—conducting ultrasounds that revealed ovarian cysts—her health continued to decline.
By the time she was 34 weeks pregnant, she required hospitalization for nutritional support. Just days later, she delivered her son via C-section, but her health took a drastic turn. Admitted to the ICU for serious complications, Elizabeth underwent a hysterectomy shortly after childbirth.
Upon returning home, a concerning blood clot in her arm led to further testing, revealing the devastating diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. “It was a terrible shock,” she recalls, marking the beginning of her fight against an aggressive disease.
Initial Treatment and Hope
Elizabeth’s first oncologist, Dr. Daniel Dubovsky, offered her a glimmer of hope. “No one holds a crystal ball to your life,” he told her, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. He referred her to Dr. Daniel Von Hoff, a specialist who would play a crucial role in her treatment.
Initially ineligible for surgery, Elizabeth began a rigorous chemotherapy regimen starting in November 2010. Over the following months, her treatment protocol evolved, including a combination of gemcitabine and Abraxane. By early 2012, her scans showed encouraging results, paving the way for surgery.
Surgical Interventions and Recovery
Under the skilled hands of Dr. Douglas Evans at Froedtert Hospital, Elizabeth underwent a major surgical procedure in March 2012 to remove parts of her pancreas, spleen, and stomach lining. This complex surgery required eight hours, but it successfully removed 75% of her pancreas.
Post-surgery, Elizabeth continued chemotherapy with 5-FU to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Frequent scans became part of her routine, with her doctors closely monitoring her recovery.
Challenges and Triumphs
However, the battle was far from over. In May 2014, a lesion was discovered on her lung, leading to surgery by Dr. John Gouldman. Shortly after, Elizabeth experienced seizures, revealing that the cancer had metastasized to her brain. A subsequent surgery at Duke University Hospital with Dr. Allan Friedman introduced new challenges, including mobility issues.
In the face of adversity, Elizabeth remained steadfast. Following her brain surgery, she received targeted radiation treatment and began taking Lynparza, a PARP inhibitor, due to her specific genetic mutation. Despite a recurrence in 2018, she persevered with further treatments and clinical trials.
Embracing New Treatments
Throughout 2019 and 2020, Elizabeth’s medical team continued to adjust her treatment plan. After discovering cancerous growths on her scalp, she underwent surgery and radiation.
Remarkably, her doctors introduced immunotherapy, specifically a combination of Opdivo and Yervoy, which yielded impressive results. "Immunotherapy has become a blessing," Elizabeth shares, noting the minimal side effects and the significant positive impact on her health.
A Focus on Family and Healing
Today, Elizabeth cherishes the simple joys of life with her husband, Patrick, and their two children, Abigail and Andrew. Reflecting on her journey, she expresses gratitude for the everyday moments that bring her joy.
“I never imagined I would be here, thriving 11 years later,” she says. Her experience has transformed her perspective, turning her focus towards healing and family time.
Elizabeth’s story is not just one of survival; it’s a testament to hope, resilience, and the advancements in cancer treatment. Her journey continues, inspiring many along the way.
For a deeper dive into Elizabeth’s inspiring journey, watch her in the video “The Mother I’ve Always Wanted To Be”.
