Transforming Treatment Plans: Embracing Change for Better Health Outcomes

A Journey Through Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer: Shawnee’s Story

In the face of a devastating diagnosis, Shawnee Daniels-Sykes embarked on an extraordinary journey after being diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer on November 23, 2019. Just a week earlier, she had set a personal challenge to swim 20 laps in honor of a friend’s brother battling the same illness. This unexpected twist of fate led Shawnee to confront her health crisis and fight back with incredible resilience.

The Diagnosis: A Shocking Revelation

Shawnee’s initial symptoms manifested as persistent pain on the left side of her abdomen, prompting her visit to the emergency department at Community Memorial Hospital in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. With a lengthy wait at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee, she sought immediate care nearby. After a series of tests, the emergency physician delivered the shocking news: “You have stage IV pancreatic cancer, and there’s nothing we can do.” The abruptness of this revelation left Shawnee and her sister in disbelief, lacking any immediate treatment plan.

Swift Action for Treatment

Having been a patient at Froedtert for nearly 20 years due to Crohn’s disease, Shawnee was familiar with her medical team. The emergency physician promptly contacted her colorectal surgeon, Dr. Mary Otterson, who quickly arranged for her admission. The following day, Shawnee was seen by the surgical oncology team led by Dr. Kathleen Christians, where a series of tests revealed a large mass in her pancreas and multiple liver lesions, indicating metastatic disease.

Within ten days, Shawnee underwent a Mediport insertion to prepare for her chemotherapy regimen. Her initial treatments began on December 4, 2019, with gemcitabine and Abraxane, continuing until December 2020 when her condition worsened. She then transitioned to irinotecan and 5-FU, and later to mFOLFOX6, battling significant side effects throughout her treatment journey.

• Side Effects Faced:
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Severe weight loss
  • Neuropathy in fingers and toes
  • Mental fog
  • Alopecia
  • A metallic taste in her mouth

Innovative Treatments and Hope

In December 2021, Shawnee underwent a Y-90 radioembolization procedure performed by Dr. William Rilling, which successfully reduced tumors in her liver. While the pancreatic and one liver tumor remained, she remained in close contact with her oncology team for further treatment options.

A New Approach to Chemotherapy

To ease the strain of aggressive chemotherapy, Shawnee transitioned to oral medications typically used for breast cancer: Ibrance and Mekinist. This regimen, which considers her KRAS G12R gene mutation, allows for a three-week on, one-week off treatment cycle to mitigate the risk of severe pancytopenia. As of June 23, 2022, her condition has remained stable, offering a glimmer of hope in her ongoing battle.

Finding Joy in Life

Despite her challenges, Shawnee expressed optimism and a desire to return to her role as a Professor of Theology and Ethics at Mount Mary University in Milwaukee for the 2022-2023 academic year. In her spare time, she enjoys relaxing, engaging in prayer groups, reading, writing, and biking.

Shawnee’s journey through cancer not only showcases her strength and determination but also serves as an inspiration to many facing similar battles. Her story is a poignant reminder of the importance of hope, resilience, and the fight against cancer.

Note: Shawnee passed away shortly after sharing her journey. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family during this difficult time.