Seize the Moment: Why Every Second Counts in Your Journey to Success
A Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer: Finding Hope and Strength
In 2018, my life took an unexpected turn when I received a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Initially overwhelmed by the symptoms, I transformed my journey into a story of resilience and hope. I want to share my experiences to inspire others facing similar battles.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
The onset of my pancreatic cancer symptoms was nothing short of alarming. In December 2018, I experienced relentless itching all over my body, accompanied by noticeable jaundice and unusually pale stools. I was also losing weight inexplicably, which prompted me to seek medical attention.
After a referral to a hepatologist, I underwent an abdominal ultrasound and an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The results were sobering: elevated bilirubin levels and high CA 19-9 markers confirmed that I had pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Relief Through Medical Intervention
At the age of 45, I was shocked by the diagnosis. Having quit smoking five years earlier and maintaining regular health checkups, I considered myself healthy. However, I was determined to fight this illness.
I visited the Hospital Italiano La Plata in Argentina, where Dr. Di María placed a pancreatic stent to alleviate my symptoms. The stent worked wonders, allowing bilirubin to exit my body through urine, turning it a vivid yellow and relieving my unbearable itching. I finally felt a sense of normalcy again.
Dr. Di María informed me that surgery was necessary to remove the tumor located at the head of my pancreas. On April 9, 2019, I underwent a Whipple procedure performed by Dr. Gabriel Raffin. Fortunately, I did not require chemotherapy before the surgery, although I completed six mild cycles afterward with minimal side effects. My follow-up appointments transitioned from every six months to annually over time.
Adapting My Lifestyle and Diet
Post-diagnosis, I was prescribed pancreatic enzymes, which I now take with every meal for the rest of my life. My diet has drastically changed since then:
- No alcohol consumption
- Minimal fats in my meals
- Lactose-free milk only, in limited quantities
- Increased vegetable intake
- Broth and mineral water are my go-to beverages
- Processed foods are a definite no-go
Two years post-surgery, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, but my doctor reassured me it was unrelated to the Whipple procedure.
Reflecting on the Importance of Surgery
Now, at 50 years old, I am five years post-surgery and feeling fantastic. With four children, I cherish every moment and look forward to seeing them grow and hopefully welcome grandchildren someday.
Without the surgery, I truly believe I wouldn’t be here today. The operation was a lifesaver. This journey forced me to confront my mortality, leading me to reassess my priorities and live each day more simply and intentionally.
A Message of Hope for Others
To anyone battling pancreatic cancer or any significant illness, my message is clear: Don’t lose hope! Fight with everything you have and explore all treatment options. Early diagnosis is crucial. Since I was 30, I’ve routinely monitored my blood for cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. Paying attention to early symptoms was vital in detecting my cancer.
In hindsight, I might have caught my condition even sooner, as my routine blood tests showed slightly elevated transaminase levels earlier in 2018. The initial mild itching didn’t raise alarms, but when my condition worsened, I pushed for further testing. Acting promptly may have saved precious time, and I urge others to do the same. Once diagnosed, there’s no time to waste; the fight for your life begins immediately.
