Transforming Healing: Harnessing the Power of Surrounding Energy for Wellness
A Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer: Judith Glaser’s Inspiring Story
In December 2015, Judith Glaser received life-altering news: she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after enduring two previous battles with breast cancer. The journey she faced is a testament to resilience and the power of community support. Judith’s experience, marked by a BRCA2 mutation, highlights the complexities of cancer treatment and the importance of seeking help when facing adversity.
From Breast Cancer to a New Diagnosis
Judith’s health struggles began on September 11, 2001, when she was first diagnosed with breast cancer, leading to a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Years later, in the summer of 2015, the cancer returned, prompting a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. Judith hoped for a smooth recovery, but abdominal pain soon plagued her, and she began losing weight. After seeking urgent care at Norwalk Hospital, the diagnosis of a 4.4 cm tumor wrapped around her pancreas was a devastating blow, rendering her condition inoperable.
Exploring Treatment Options
On December 24, 2015, Judith met with Dr. Joseph Ruggiero from Weill Cornell Medicine, who recommended FOLFIRINOX, a chemotherapy regimen particularly suited for those with the BRCA2 mutation. After careful consideration, she opted for this treatment, embarking on a challenging yet transformative journey.
The Healing Process Begins
Chemotherapy brought its own set of challenges, including moments of disorientation. Despite this, Judith maintained a positive outlook and a strong will to live. Just before starting her treatment, she launched a global program for coaches from 75 countries. Openly sharing her cancer journey created a powerful network of support. Coaches began to pray for her daily, and her family kept friends updated, creating a community that bolstered her spirit.
- Support System: Friends, family, and coaches provided emotional and spiritual support.
- Engagement: Judith’s willingness to share her experiences fostered connections that were uplifting.
As her health fluctuated, Judith found strength in the encouragement and prayers of those around her. Despite the physical toll of chemotherapy—losing weight and energy—she felt a renewed sense of connection and purpose.
Remarkable Progress
After five months of treatment, Judith’s tumor shrank to less than 1 cm, while small nodules in her lungs remained. Her husband, Richard, played a vital role in her recovery, supporting her in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing her business. The couple traveled to Australia, Ireland, and beyond, finding joy in the connections they maintained with friends and family.
Valuable Insights from the Journey
Judith learned that receiving a cancer diagnosis, especially pancreatic cancer, can be overwhelming. She understood the urgency of acting promptly to increase her chances of recovery. Her experience taught her the importance of letting others help her, creating a circle of support around her.
- Empowerment: Judith embraced being seen as a "walking miracle" rather than just a patient battling cancer.
- Connection: She discovered that sharing her journey was therapeutic and fostered healing.
Judith viewed her cancer experience as a fascinating chapter in her life, filled with lessons about community, resilience, and the human spirit.
A Legacy of Courage
Sadly, Judith Glaser passed away after a courageous three-year battle with stage IV pancreatic cancer. Her unwavering spirit and dedication to living life fully left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Judith’s story serves as a reminder of hope, strength, and the importance of connection in the face of life’s greatest challenges.
