Explore Your Choices: Make Informed Decisions for a Brighter Future
Facing Pancreatic Cancer: One Woman’s Journey of Hope and Resilience
Diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer at the young age of 40, Rachel Santmyer-Flores’ life changed dramatically on May 14, 2015. With a two-year-old daughter, Lily, by her side, Rachel faced an overwhelming diagnosis that would challenge her both physically and emotionally. Experiencing symptoms like jaundice and dark urine led to a CT scan, revealing tumors that initiated a series of urgent medical interventions.
The Shock of Diagnosis
Receiving a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is a life-altering experience. Rachel described her feelings as a mix of anger and profound sadness. "How could this happen to me, a healthy individual?" she pondered. The emotional toll of her diagnosis was substantial, leaving her grappling with uncertainty about her future.
Exploring Treatment Options
Initially, Rachel’s oncologist recommended the FOLFIRINOX treatment, but her family found it unacceptable. Seeking alternatives, she consulted two more oncologists but found no better options. In her quest for answers, she also visited a naturopathic doctor in Sedona, Arizona, who suggested a regimen of vitamins and supplements to bolster her immune system. These recommendations became a crucial part of her treatment approach.
In the wake of her diagnosis, Rachel’s sister-in-law reached out to PanCAN, leading to the discovery of Dr. Darren Sigal, a pancreatic cancer specialist at Scripps Clinic/MD Anderson in La Jolla, California. Dr. Sigal offered Rachel a glimmer of hope, suggesting she might qualify for promising clinical trials.
Joining the PEGPH20 Clinical Trial
On August 4, 2015, Rachel embarked on the phase II PEGPH20 study, which involved a treatment plan combining PEGPH20 with Gemzar and Abraxane. The regimen consisted of three weeks of treatment followed by a week off. Regular CT scans every eight weeks monitored her tumor status, and by autumn 2017, Rachel was thrilled to report that her liver was clear of lesions.
Rachel was labeled a “super responder” by her medical team, a testament to the effectiveness of her treatment. Despite experiencing side effects like cramping and fatigue, she felt remarkably well for someone living with advanced cancer. "This treatment has provided me with a quality of life I never imagined was possible," she shared.
The Impact of Clinical Trials
Rachel’s experience underscores the vital role of clinical trials in cancer treatment. "I never thought I would make it to the end of 2015, yet here I am, preparing for Halloween and the holidays in 2017," she reflected. Her daughter was growing, and Rachel was filled with hope.
Her advice to others facing similar diagnoses is clear: be proactive and seek multiple medical opinions. "Explore every option before committing to treatment. It’s essential to make informed decisions—your life may depend on it."
A Journey Towards Remission
In a significant update, Rachel announced on November 14, 2017, that she was in remission. Sadly, Rachel’s journey came to an end seven years after her diagnosis, but her legacy lives on through her advocacy for clinical trials and the love she had for her daughter. Her story is a poignant reminder of the power of hope and the importance of seeking innovative treatments in the face of adversity.
