Surprising Discovery: Understanding PNET Diagnosis and Its Implications

In 2019, Lisa Tayman, a dedicated ER nurse and mother of four, faced an unexpected medical crisis that changed her life forever. At just 44 years old, she developed persistent shoulder pain that eventually led to a shocking diagnosis: a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). This is her inspiring journey through diagnosis, surgery, and recovery, showcasing resilience and the pursuit of dreams.

The Road to Diagnosis

Lisa had been leading a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, and working as an ER nurse for nearly two decades. However, in February, she began experiencing pain in her right shoulder blade, initially dismissing it as gallbladder issues. As the discomfort intensified, she sought medical advice from her primary care physician.

• Blood tests returned normal results.
• An abdominal ultrasound was ordered, which led to further imaging.

On March 29, 2019, during a routine ultrasound, the technician flagged an abnormality in Lisa’s pancreas, prompting an immediate CT scan. The results were alarming: an 8 cm mass was discovered on her pancreas, leading to a referral for surgical consultation.

Seeking Expert Care

After receiving the diagnosis, Lisa reached out to a well-regarded surgeon, Dr. Un Chin, for further evaluation. On April 2, 2019, he recommended a biopsy, which confirmed the presence of the tumor. The news was devastating, but Lisa’s experience as a healthcare professional helped her navigate the next steps.

• April 26: Underwent the biopsy.
• April 30: Dr. Chin delivered the diagnosis of PNET.
• Referred to Johns Hopkins Hospital for specialized treatment due to the tumor’s size.

A Complex Surgery

On June 21, 2019, Lisa underwent the Whipple procedure, a complex surgery lasting eight hours. Fortunately, the operation was minimally invasive, marking a significant medical achievement. The pathology report confirmed that the tumor was well-differentiated and had not spread beyond the pancreas.

• Spent two days in the ICU, followed by five days in recovery.
• July 10: Follow-up with Dr. He showed that the tumor had been entirely removed, eliminating the need for chemotherapy or radiation.

Embracing a New Normal

Following her surgery, Lisa experienced some complications, including a chronic ileus, but she focused on her recovery and well-being. She shifted her diet to include more seafood, fruits, and vegetables, which positively impacted her gastrointestinal health.

In January 2020, she transitioned from the ER to a full-time role as a pediatric nurse practitioner. Inspired by her journey, Lisa created a bucket list that included writing a novel—something she had always dreamed of.

A New Chapter

Under the pen name Greenleigh Adams, she began writing and published her first romance novel in April 2021, followed by a second in July 2021. Lisa’s story is not just about overcoming health challenges; it’s about seizing opportunities and turning dreams into reality.

In summary, Lisa Tayman’s experience with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors highlights the importance of early diagnosis and expert medical care. Her journey reflects resilience, hope, and the power of pursuing one’s passions despite life’s adversities. For more information on pancreatic cancers and treatment options, consider visiting Johns Hopkins Medicine.