Transforming Struggles: Discovering Life’s Unexpected Blessings Amidst Pancreatic Cancer

In an instant, life can take an unexpected turn, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Such was the case for Kelly Pankratz, a dedicated teacher and mother, who discovered she had pancreatic cancer after a painful episode with kidney stones in 2018. This shocking diagnosis led her on a challenging journey filled with treatment, resilience, and newfound hope.

A Tumultuous Start: From Kidney Stones to Cancer Diagnosis

At 42, Kelly was thriving in her personal and professional life. Married for 17 years, she enjoyed the company of her two children and a newly adopted cat named Purrgus, who provided comfort during troubling times. However, in early March 2018, Kelly began experiencing abdominal pain and issues with urination.

• Frequent visits to her primary care physician, Dr. Jennifer Lochner, led to a diagnosis of kidney stones, prompting further tests to assess the situation.
• A CT scan revealed not only the stones but also a mass in her pancreas, turning her world upside down.

Dr. Lochner was straightforward, indicating that the radiologist suspected cancer. This unsettling news turned Kelly’s “lucky stones” into a catalyst for discovering a life-threatening condition.

Navigating the Diagnosis: Testing and Treatment Plans

Instead of enjoying a spring break cruise, Kelly faced a whirlwind of medical evaluations at University of Wisconsin Health. The week following her diagnosis felt interminable.

• With the support of her medical team, including her surgical nurse Crystal and surgeon Dr. Daniel Abbott, Kelly learned about her condition and the potential treatment options.
• Crystal, whose background resonated with Kelly, provided a comforting presence, making her feel less alone.

After a biopsy confirmed that the mass was adenocarcinoma of the pancreas, Kelly was introduced to her oncologist Dr. Nataliya Uboha. Together, they devised a treatment plan that included eight rounds of FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy, followed by surgery.

Beginning Treatment: The Fight Against Cancer

As treatment commenced, Kelly met Stacy, her oncology nurse, who became her lifeline throughout the process.

• Stacy guided her through the complexities of chemotherapy, addressing any concerns and scheduling appointments.
• Although Kelly initially faced eight rounds of chemotherapy, additional treatments were added, pushing her mental resilience to the limit.

Throughout her treatment, Kelly found solace in the support of her healthcare team, which included Liz, her pharmacist, who provided assistance during her chemotherapy sessions.

After completing the chemotherapy, the results were promising. Dr. Abbott remarked on the significant reduction of the tumor, which filled Kelly with hope and gratitude for the support she received from loved ones and even strangers.

The Surgical Journey: A New Chapter

On August 27, 2018, Kelly faced one of her most daunting challenges—surgery to remove the cancerous mass along with her spleen and gallbladder.

• Surrounded by a caring medical team, she felt reassured as the procedure unfolded.
• Upon waking up, she learned that the surgery had gone well, and Dr. Abbott was confident all cancer had been removed.

Recovery was a mixed bag of emotions, with Kelly describing her hospital stay as a “Resort UW” experience due to the exceptional care she received. However, the month following surgery proved difficult as chemotherapy side effects caught up with her.

Towards Recovery: The Road Ahead

As she healed, Kelly faced the daunting task of resuming chemotherapy, hoping to conquer the lingering effects of treatment.

• On December 5, 2018, she triumphantly completed her final round of chemotherapy.
• By July 2020, Kelly received the life-changing news that she was cancer-free, marking a significant milestone in her journey.

With plans to remove her IV port, Kelly reflected on the emotional weight it carried, serving as a constant reminder of her battle.

Embracing Life: Lessons Learned

Adjusting to life post-treatment proved to be a challenge. The support of her medical team was no longer as accessible, leading to feelings of anxiety about potential cancer recurrence.

However, through her journey, Kelly discovered profound lessons about resilience and the beauty of life’s simple moments.

• She learned to appreciate the unexpected blessings and the unwavering support from family, friends, and even compassionate strangers.
• Her resolve to fight cancer was fueled by the desire to witness her children grow and cherish the everyday joys of life.

In the words of O. Carl Simonton, “In the face of uncertainty, there is nothing wrong with hope!” Kelly embodies this sentiment, having transformed her experience into a powerful testament of endurance and the value of living fully.