Hope Renewed: Insights from a Groundbreaking Clinical Trial
Inspiring Journey of Dennis Rues: A Pancreatic Cancer Warrior
Dennis Rues, a remarkable individual, faced the daunting challenge of pancreatic cancer with resilience and hope. Diagnosed with stage II pancreatic cancer in November 2017, his story is one of courage, medical innovation, and the power of clinical trials. Despite the odds, Dennis’s journey offers a glimpse into the advancements in cancer treatment and the importance of early detection.
Early Detection and Diagnosis
Dennis’s health issues began with what he initially believed were mere side effects from a flu shot. However, his wife’s observations prompted him to seek medical help. A visit to the doctor revealed alarming symptoms, leading to a diagnosis of stage II pancreatic cancer. The early detection of his tumor was a stroke of luck that many pancreatic cancer patients do not experience.
Commencement of Treatment
After his diagnosis, Dennis sought care at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Under the guidance of oncologist Dr. Anup Kasi and surgeon Dr. Sean Kumer, he embarked on a treatment plan that included chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before considering the Whipple procedure. Dennis’s response to the chemotherapy regimen FOLFIRINOX was positive, enabling him to undergo surgery in August 2018. Shortly after, Dr. Kasi declared him cancer-free, although he continued to receive regular scans as a precaution.
Setback: Cancer Recurrence
Unfortunately, in November 2019, Dennis’s cancer returned, this time manifesting as a mass in his right lung. Following a series of scans, a biopsy in May 2020 confirmed the worst: stage IV metastatic pancreatic cancer. The news was devastating for Dennis and his family, who had hoped for a less aggressive diagnosis. The doctors considered various treatment options, including radiation for the affected areas.
The Search for New Options
As Dennis’s medical team explored potential treatments, including genetic testing to qualify him for clinical trials, they discovered new avenues for care. In September 2020, he enrolled in a clinical trial that offered a new treatment protocol combining gemcitabine and GP-2250. This decision marked a turning point in his battle with cancer.
Thriving on Clinical Trials
Dennis’s experience in the clinical trial proved to be transformative. Each week, he received chemotherapy, and remarkably, he experienced only mild side effects, such as fatigue and slight neuropathy. Over a span of nine months, his primary tumor shrank significantly, and the nodal activity showed signs of remission. The results from his PET scans indicated that his condition was stabilizing, providing hope for a brighter future.
Gratitude and Future Aspirations
At 79 years old, Dennis expressed immense gratitude for the medical team at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Their collaborative approach and commitment to exploring innovative treatments made a significant difference in his life. He cherished his time with family and maintained his aspiration to live a long life, setting his sights on walking his dogs again.
A Legacy of Hope
Though Dennis Rues passed away after a courageous seven-year battle with pancreatic cancer, his legacy endures. He was proud of his involvement in clinical trials, contributing to the advancement of cancer research. His story serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of early detection, innovative treatments, and hope in the face of adversity.
In memory of Dennis, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and honor his fight against pancreatic cancer.
