Transforming Cancer Care: Harnessing Recovery Lessons in My Pancreatic Cancer Journey
A Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer: Robert Hessler’s Inspiring Story
In the summer of 2020, Robert Hessler’s life took an unexpected turn when he began to experience troubling symptoms. Initially, severe acid reflux escalated into excruciating stomach pain, prompting him to seek medical attention. A CT scan later revealed the shocking diagnosis: stage I borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. This marked the beginning of a challenging yet transformative journey that would test his resilience and determination.
Navigating Treatment Options
Residing in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, at the time of his diagnosis, Robert quickly sought treatment at a prominent cancer hospital in Boston. His oncologists devised a rigorous regimen of 12 rounds of chemotherapy using FOLFIRINOX, a powerful combination of chemotherapy drugs primarily featuring fluorouracil. Each treatment session involved a five-hour hospital infusion, followed by an additional 48 hours of at-home chemotherapy via an infusion pump, repeating this cycle bi-weekly.
- Chemotherapy Highlights:
- 12 rounds of FOLFIRINOX
- Five hours of in-hospital treatment
- 48 hours of at-home infusion
- Primarily fluorouracil as the main ingredient
Remarkably, Robert tolerated the chemotherapy well. Unlike many patients, he experienced minimal side effects, avoiding nausea and maintaining his appetite. Although he did lose most of his hair, he found solace in the fact that his body was responding to treatment. Fatigue did set in but never overwhelmed him, allowing him to maintain a semblance of his normal lifestyle.
A New Chapter in South Carolina
As treatment progressed, Robert and his wife decided to relocate to Johns Island, South Carolina, where they owned a second home. In early 2021, he connected with Dr. David Mahvi, a surgical oncologist at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), based on a friend’s recommendation of the Hollings Cancer Center.
After completing eight rounds of chemotherapy, Robert received encouraging news: his tumor had shrunk by 90%, leading to the decision to halt chemotherapy. In June 2021, he successfully underwent a Whipple procedure, a complex surgery aimed at removing cancerous tissue. Following his recovery, he returned to Cape Cod, where a local oncologist collaborated with Dr. Mahvi. Upon returning to South Carolina, he began follow-up care with Dr. Toros Dincman, another oncologist at MUSC, who confirmed there was no evidence of disease.
Embracing a Mindset of Resilience
With 15 years of sobriety under his belt at the time of his diagnosis, Robert found that his experiences as a recovering alcoholic equipped him with unique coping strategies for battling pancreatic cancer. He emphasized the importance of living "one day at a time," a mantra that proved invaluable during his chemotherapy treatments.
- Key Takeaways from Recovery:
- Focus on positive triggers to navigate challenges
- View setbacks, like hair loss, as signs of progress
- Maintain faith in a higher power to support recovery
Robert’s journey revealed that the lessons learned in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) could be applied beyond addiction. He reframed negative experiences as opportunities for growth, celebrating small victories throughout his treatment. His faith in God served as an anchor during difficult moments, reinforcing his belief that he could overcome both alcoholism and cancer.
A Legacy of Strength
Tragically, Robert Hessler passed away from diabetes complications related to his pancreatic cancer treatment three and a half years after his initial diagnosis. His story remains a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the human spirit in facing life’s most formidable challenges. Our heartfelt condolences extend to his family during this difficult time.
