Embracing the Butterfly Effect: How to Live Each Day to Its Fullest Potential

Helene Avraham-Katz’s journey through pancreatic cancer is both harrowing and inspiring. Diagnosed in October 2016 with stage IIA pancreatic head and neck adenocarcinoma, she faced a battle that many would find daunting, especially given her family’s history with this aggressive disease. With determination and the support of her loved ones, Helene embarked on a path that would forever change her life, demonstrating resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

Initial Diagnosis and Treatment Journey

Helene began experiencing discomfort in her upper abdomen, which led to her diagnosis. Having lost her mother to pancreatic cancer and her uncle to the same fate, she was all too aware of the seriousness of her condition. Thankfully, she was referred to the exceptional Dr. Russell Howerton at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in North Carolina. The news was bittersweet; although her cancer was caught early, its location made it inoperable.

• Key Treatment Steps:
  • Genetic testing revealed a BRCA2 mutation.
  • Underwent a regimen of FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy, which significantly reduced her tumor size.
  • Completed a 29-day radiation treatment with 5-FU chemotherapy.
  • After proving her eligibility, she underwent the Whipple procedure in June 2017, resulting in her becoming a type 1 diabetic.

Despite the challenges of surgery and the aftermath, Helene remained optimistic. She attributed her strength to her supportive husband and three daughters, who decided early on to face her diagnosis with positivity.

Clinical Trials and Recurrence

After a year of being cancer-free, Helene faced another setback when her cancer reappeared in her lung. Following a lung resection, she was eager to explore clinical trials. With guidance from her oncologist, Dr. Steven Sorscher, she found a promising study at the Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania.

• Key Details of the Clinical Trial:
  • Enrolled in a trial for PARP inhibitors (Rucaparib).
  • Initially underwent four rounds of FOLFOX chemotherapy.
  • Follow-up visits transitioned from every four weeks to every twelve weeks over time.

Despite the financial burden of travel during her treatment, Helene remained committed to her health and well-being, opting for online consultations during the pandemic.

A New Chapter in Life

In October 2019, Helene turned her passion into action by opening The Butterfly Effect, a store showcasing local artisans. This endeavor was a testament to her determination to live life fully, even amidst her health challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while her store was temporarily closed, she channeled her experiences into writing a book titled The Butterfly Effect, sharing her story of resilience and hope.

Tragically, Helene’s battle with pancreatic cancer ended after a courageous seven-year struggle. Her journey serves as a reminder that we are more than just statistics; we are defined by our spirit, determination, and the love we share with others.

To learn more about Helene’s story, you can watch her inspiring video, “Breathe Happy.”

Helene’s legacy continues to inspire those affected by pancreatic cancer, highlighting the importance of hope, community, and perseverance.