Empower Yourself: The Life-Changing Benefits of Being Your Own Advocate

In a life-altering moment, Eric Borden received shocking news during a routine call from his doctor’s office. A CT scan revealed a 1.7 cm cystic lesion on his pancreas, prompting him to take immediate action rather than wait for a follow-up. In June 2017, after noticing elevated liver enzymes, Eric transformed a potentially dire situation into a proactive path toward recovery, showcasing the power of advocating for one’s own health.

The Importance of Taking Charge of Your Health

Hearing the words, "You have a cystic lesion on your pancreas," could leave anyone feeling uneasy. However, Eric’s instinct was to dig deeper rather than accept his internist’s recommendation for a follow-up in a year. Feeling fine, he decided to consult a gastroenterologist for further insight. An endoscopy with ultrasound ultimately revealed he had a 95% chance of pancreatic cancer, diagnosed at stage IIA.

• Key Steps Taken by Eric:
  • Sought a second opinion from a gastroenterologist.
  • Underwent an endoscopic procedure and biopsy.
  • Learned about his pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

Choosing the Right Treatment

After receiving his diagnosis, Eric embarked on a quest to find the best medical team for his treatment. He opted to travel from Lake Worth, Florida, to the esteemed Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Under the care of Dr. Daniel Laheru, his oncologist, Eric underwent Whipple surgery followed by a six-month chemotherapy regimen.

• Surgical and Chemotherapy Details:
  • Robotic Whipple surgery performed on August 14.
  • Chemotherapy drugs: Gemzar and Xeloda on a cycle of three weeks on, one week off.
  • Chemotherapy supervised by Dr. Warren Brenner at Boca Raton Regional Hospital.

Post-Treatment Progress and Advocacy

Since completing his treatment, Eric has thrived. Although he needs to take Creon pancreatic enzymes with meals, he remains active and dedicated to helping others. As a passionate volunteer with the Lustgarten Foundation, he has led walks in Boca Raton for four years, raising awareness for pancreatic cancer.

Trust Your Instincts and Advocate for Yourself

Eric’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. Had he chosen to follow his internist’s advice and waited a year, the outcome could have been vastly different. He encourages others to trust their instincts and take charge of their health.

• Key Takeaways:
  • Don’t hesitate to seek second opinions.
  • Be proactive about your health, especially when something feels off.
  • Your voice matters in healthcare decisions.

By becoming his own advocate, Eric not only caught his disease early but also paved the way for others to follow suit. He believes that everyone should prioritize their health and never shy away from speaking up. As he puts it, "You know yourself best. If something feels wrong, don’t hesitate to say, ‘No way!’"

Watch Eric share his inspirational journey in the video “Hope is Everything You Have” here.

If you’re looking for a pancreatic cancer expert, explore resources to find a specialist near you here.