Fighting Back: My Inspiring Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer

A Personal Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer: Deanna Burney’s Story

On December 12, 2021, Deanna Burney faced an unimaginable challenge: a diagnosis of stage III pancreatic cancer. This startling news not only mirrored her family’s tragic history with the disease, including the loss of her mother and grandfather, but also forced her to confront her own mortality. Yet, amid the turmoil, Deanna is determined to fight, sharing her story to raise awareness and inspire others.

Family History and Diagnosis

Deanna’s journey began with a family legacy of pancreatic cancer, but despite this alarming background, she was not deemed at high risk. Initially, a cyst on her pancreas seemed harmless, leading to a clean bill of health. However, a month later, discomfort prompted a visit to the hospital, where doctors revealed the devastating transformation of the cyst into cancer.

• Key Facts:
  • Family history of pancreatic cancer.
  • Diagnosed with stage III after a cyst turned cancerous.
  • Treatment regimen includes Whipple surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Reflections on Medical Protocols

The rapid diagnosis left Deanna grappling with frustration and regret, especially upon realizing that warning signs had been overlooked. During a conversation with her gastroenterologist, Deanna raised critical questions about the reliance on standard medical guidelines without considering individual patient histories.

• “Why are we not more proactive given the specifics of my case?” she pondered.
• Her doctor admitted, “There’s no way to predict how a cyst will develop,” emphasizing the limitations of current medical practices.

Deanna believes that her unique situation could lead to improvements in monitoring and treatment protocols for patients with similar backgrounds.

Lessons Learned and Advocacy

Throughout her ordeal, Deanna has recognized the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. She now understands that, given her risk factors, she should have undergone more frequent MRI scans to catch the cancer earlier.

• Advocacy Tips:
  • Push for further testing if symptoms arise, even if initial tests return normal.
  • Be vigilant about personal health history, especially in families with a history of cancer.
  • Encourage open communication with healthcare providers about concerns.

Deanna hopes that by sharing her experiences, she can empower others to take charge of their health journeys.

Ongoing Treatment Journey

Today, Deanna is in her third year of treatment at the Abramson Cancer Center in Philadelphia, guided by Dr. Ursina Teitelbaum. Her fight has included multiple treatment options, such as:

• Whipple surgery followed by chemotherapy.
• A six-week course of radiation.
• Ongoing chemotherapy regimens like FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine.

Despite setbacks, including a spot on her liver and recurring cancer, Deanna remains hopeful and committed to exploring every possible avenue for recovery.

The Role of Support in Healing

Throughout this challenging journey, the support of friends and family has been invaluable. Whether it’s a friend preparing meals or a “cancer coach” offering guidance, these acts of kindness have helped sustain her spirit.

• Moments of encouragement come from:
  • Friends who assist with daily tasks.
  • Community members who check in on her well-being.
  • A spiritual mentor providing prayers and uplifting messages.

Deanna’s resilience shines through as she emphasizes her desire to continue living fully and to help others advocate for their health.

Conclusion: A Message of Hope

Driven by her fight against pancreatic cancer, Deanna Burney is committed to raising awareness about the disease and the importance of patient advocacy. She aims to inspire others facing similar battles, reminding them that they are not alone and encouraging proactive engagement with their healthcare providers. Deanna’s journey is a testament to hope, strength, and the human spirit’s ability to endure.