Transforming Hope: My Empowering Journey Through a Pancreatic Cancer Clinical Trial
In early 2018, I received a life-altering diagnosis: stage IV adenocarcinoma, a form of pancreatic cancer that had spread to my liver. My journey began in September 2017 when routine checks for uterine fibroids revealed an abnormal mass on one of my ovaries. A subsequent series of tests, including a CA 19-9 blood test, led my primary care physician to order a CT scan, where the unexpected discovery of a pancreatic mass emerged.
Seeking Expert Care for Pancreatic Cancer
Despite the absence of symptoms, the uncertainty surrounding the mass prompted me to seek specialized care. After extensive research, I chose the renowned Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, recognized for its expertise in pancreatic cancer. There, I consulted with Dr. Peter Kingham, who grimly advised that without treatment, my prognosis was a mere one to two years. He recommended a chemotherapy regimen known as FOLFIRINOX, which I agreed to pursue.
Initiating Standard Treatment
Following a biopsy, the medical team at Sloan Kettering advocated for molecular profiling and germline testing. While awaiting these crucial results, I began chemotherapy at Medstar Georgetown’s Lombardi Cancer Center under the guidance of Dr. Michael Pishvaian. Concurrently, I reached out to MD Anderson, where I learned that they also endorsed the FOLFIRINOX treatment plan.
During this challenging time, I was fortunate to have a robust support system. Friends accompanied me to appointments, ensuring I never faced this battle alone. I also engaged with organizations like the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and Let’s Win, which provided invaluable resources and insights about my condition.
Discovering Genetic Insights
As I commenced my chemotherapy sessions, I learned that my germline tests returned negative results; however, the profiling of my liver metastasis revealed a BRCA2 mutation. Surprisingly, this mutation opened doors to precision medicine, a promising avenue for treatment.
Transitioning to a Clinical Trial
Dr. Pishvaian had suggested exploring clinical trials right from our first meeting. When my genetic results confirmed the BRCA2 mutation, he recommended I transition to a clinical trial. After thorough research and collaboration with friends and PanCAN, I selected the rucaparib trial at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania, led by the esteemed Dr. Kim Reiss Binder. This phase II trial was specifically designed for stage IV pancreatic cancer patients who had previously responded to platinum-based chemotherapy.
A New Journey Begins
I began the rucaparib trial on August 3, 2018, and within a month, my CA 19-9 levels returned to normal. While I faced intense nausea and other side effects initially, I managed them with the help of prescribed medications. Gradually, my health improved, and I resumed an active lifestyle. The pharmaceutical company generously provided the medication at no cost, ensuring ongoing support for trial participants.
Living with Hope and Gratitude
By January 2019, an MRI revealed that the liver metastases had almost entirely disappeared. To date, my CT scans show no new metastases, and the original tumor remains stable. Now at 65 years old, I proudly identify as a healthy stage IV pancreatic cancer patient.
Although surgery isn’t an option, and I remain uncertain about the long-term efficacy of my trial medications, my hope remains unwavering. I am deeply appreciative of my medical team, especially Dr. Pishvaian, who has contingency plans in case my cancer becomes resistant to treatment.
For those facing a similar diagnosis, I highly recommend connecting with PanCAN and Let’s Win. Knowledge is power—educate yourself about pancreatic cancer and clinical trials, seek top-notch oncologists, and most importantly, make informed decisions about your treatment. Lastly, plan joyous events to keep your spirits high and have something to look forward to.
To delve deeper into my journey, visit my blog, Davi’s Pancreatic Cancer Journey, and watch my story in “Steely Strength to Keep Going.”
