From Cancer-Free to Champion: The Inspiring Journey of Strength and Resilience
A Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer: Janice Canfield’s Inspiring Story
In September 2022, Janice Canfield faced an unexpected challenge that changed her life forever—diagnosis with pancreatic cancer at the age of 57. A dedicated nurse practitioner, avid runner, and mother of four, Janice had no family history of cancer, making her diagnosis even more shocking. What began as a simple observation about her slightly yellow skin transformed into a harrowing journey through treatment and recovery.
The Start of a Health Scare
Janice’s health scare began when her father noticed a change in her skin tone. She initially brushed it off as a tan but, taking precaution, decided to see her doctor. A series of blood tests revealed alarming results—her liver enzymes were ten times the normal level. Despite feeling no pain, her doctor expressed serious concern, indicating that "jaundiced skin without pain could be a sign of something serious." This led her to the emergency room at North Shore University Hospital.
Uncovering the Diagnosis
At the hospital, a CT scan provided the shocking news—she had a mass on her pancreas that was pressing on her bile duct, marking the start of her battle with pancreatic cancer. The diagnosis was not what Janice had expected, but she was determined to fight back.
Undergoing the Whipple Procedure
Janice was quickly scheduled for a Whipple procedure, a complex surgery performed by renowned surgeon Dr. William Nealon. Over the course of seven hours, he removed part of her pancreas, small intestine, gallbladder, and bile duct, along with the tumor itself. This swift action underscored the urgency of her situation; in the race against cancer, time was of the essence.
Embracing Chemotherapy
Following her surgery, Janice embarked on a six-month chemotherapy regimen from November 2022 to May 2023. With careful planning by her oncologist, Dr. Craig Devoe, she was able to continue working at her hospital during treatment, supported by P.A. Syed Haque. Janice was grateful for the opportunity to maintain her professional life while battling cancer.
A Victorious Comeback
With her treatment complete, Janice emerged cancer-free and ready to reclaim her active lifestyle. She received tremendous support from her family, particularly her daughter, who works as a cardiac nurse. In September 2023, Janice proudly participated in the Great Cow Harbor 10K Run alongside 28 family members and friends, racing under the team name Janice’s Purple Penguins. Running beside her were her sons and daughter, a testament to their unwavering support.
Advocacy and Future Adventures
Janice remains committed to raising awareness about pancreatic cancer. She took part in the Lustgarten Foundation’s Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk and signed up for a half marathon with Project Purple in New York City scheduled for March 2024. For Janice, advocating for pancreatic cancer awareness is both a mission and a passion.
Her journey continues with a much-anticipated trip to Peru and Antarctica, initially planned for January 2023 but postponed due to her diagnosis. Climbing Machu Picchu was a dream come true, and spotting penguins in Antarctica was the perfect way to honor her Cow Harbor race team name, bringing her full circle from treatment to triumph.
Janice Canfield’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Her journey not only highlights the importance of early detection but also inspires others to advocate for cancer awareness.
