Transforming the Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer: How a Second Opinion Can Revolutionize Your Treatment Strategy
In the winter of 2019, Gregg Wittman was immersed in coaching his boys’ junior varsity hockey team, a passion he had cultivated for years. However, beneath his dedication to the sport, he felt an unsettling change in his health. What began as a minor issue quickly escalated into a life-altering diagnosis, leading him on a challenging journey through pancreatic cancer that would test his resilience and spirit.
The Signs of a Hidden Battle
As the season progressed, Gregg noticed he was struggling with his appetite, often leaving meals unfinished. A few weeks later, a concerning symptom emerged: his urine had turned a coffee-like color, prompting his wife to insist on an immediate doctor’s visit. On February 27, 2019, a routine checkup revealed alarming signs; his doctor urged him to go to the hospital without delay, setting the stage for a year-long fight against cancer.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
By March 1, 2019, the results were in: Gregg had been diagnosed with stage IV adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. The news was devastating, as doctors reported spots on his liver, leading to a grim outlook. Amidst this turmoil, Gregg and his family began preparations for the worst, including drafting a will and documenting memories with family photos—activities no one expects to undertake at the age of 48.
The Tumor and Its Challenges
The coming months were filled with countless hospital visits, a rigorous six-month regimen of 5-FU chemotherapy, and enduring side effects like pain and nausea. With humor as a lifeline, Gregg and his family nicknamed the tumor the “Dirty Rotten Rat Bastard,” often discussing it as if it were an adversary in their lives. The journey was fraught with challenges, including severe infections and multiple procedures aimed at managing his condition.
Community Support and Hope
During this arduous time, Gregg’s wife created a CaringBridge page to keep friends and family updated on his progress. The overwhelming support and encouragement he received from his community became a vital source of hope, helping him combat despair. Remarkably, the timing of Alex Trebek’s own diagnosis of pancreatic cancer provided a glimmer of optimism, showing Gregg that survival was possible.
Reevaluating the Treatment Plan
After completing his chemotherapy by Halloween 2019, Gregg faced uncertainty about his future treatment. With no genetic information from his cancer to guide further steps, they sought a second opinion from the University of Wisconsin Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center. There, under the care of Dr. Rebecca Minter and Dr. Nataliya Uboha, additional tests revealed surprising news: there was no longer any detectable cancer.
A New Hope: The Whipple Procedure
In a dramatic turn of events, Gregg was scheduled for a Whipple procedure on January 24, 2020. Initially apprehensive due to the surgery’s complexity, he opted to proceed, understanding the urgency of his situation. The surgery revealed that what was thought to be cancer might have been ulcers caused by his previous treatment. Post-surgery, he received life-changing news on February 8, 2020: all biopsies indicated he was cancer-free, a rarity in such cases.
Celebrating Survival and Sharing Wisdom
The announcement brought tears of joy to Gregg and his supporters. The experience taught him invaluable lessons about the importance of community, the power of sharing struggles, and the necessity of seeking second opinions in medical treatment. He emphasized the need for a strong support system, including a medical advocate to navigate the complexities of healthcare.
A Legacy of Hope
Though Gregg’s battle with pancreatic cancer ultimately came to an end after two-and-a-half years, his story remains a beacon of hope and resilience. His journey underscores the significance of determination, community support, and the relentless pursuit of answers in the face of adversity. As he left his mark on the Survivor Tree at the cancer center, Gregg’s legacy continues to inspire others to never lose hope and to fight against the odds.
In his own words, "Never give up, keep pushing, smile, laugh, and don’t give up hope!"
