Unleash Your Inner Strength: Be Strong Like a Dinosaur!

In a heartbreaking turn of events, what was meant to be a joyous celebration for Andrea Barkstrom’s 40th birthday transformed into a challenging journey marked by medical uncertainty and a life-changing diagnosis. After experiencing troubling gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating and jaundice, Andrea’s path to understanding her health led her to confront a battle with pancreatic cancer that would forever alter her life and that of her loved ones.

The Initial Signs and Diagnosis

It all began in August 2019 when Andrea began to notice increased bloating and gas. Initially, an urgent care visit led to a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome, but the relief was temporary. By November, her symptoms intensified, accompanied by a troubling darkening of urine and lighter stool, prompting her to consult her doctor.

• November 25, 2019: Andrea’s primary care physician, who had been with her for a decade, suspected jaundice and promptly ordered lab tests and an ultrasound.
• Following a series of tests and consultations, the shocking news arrived: “You have a spot on your pancreas.”

Confirming the Diagnosis

Just two days later, on December 3, 2019, Andrea received the official diagnosis of locally advanced pancreatic cancer. The CT scan indicated a tumor located at the head of her pancreas. In search of further clarity and treatment options, Andrea traveled from her home in Spokane, Washington, to the Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, a facility renowned for its expertise in pancreatic cancer treatment.

At Virginia Mason, leading oncologist Dr. Vincent Picozzi and surgeon Dr. Flavio Rocha reviewed her case and deemed her cancer borderline resectable, which offered a glimmer of hope.

Treatment Begins: FOLFIRINOX

After weighing her options, Andrea decided to continue her treatment locally in Spokane, under the care of Dr. Corliss Newman at MultiCare. She embarked on a chemotherapy regimen known as FOLFIRINOX, a treatment designed to target pancreatic cancer effectively.

• Chemotherapy Progress:
  • Andrea has undergone nearly eight rounds of treatment.
  • After three sessions, her tumor size decreased from 3.4 cm x 4.2 cm to 2.8 cm x 3.3 cm.
  • Despite some side effects, including neuropathy and nausea, she maintained a positive outlook.

Andrea’s medical team plans to continue her chemotherapy for a total of 12 sessions, after which surgery may be a possibility, depending on her tumor’s response to treatment.

The Power of Positivity

Throughout this challenging journey, Andrea found strength in unexpected places, even drawing inspiration from a young neighbor who remarked that Andrea would be okay because she is “strong like a dinosaur.” This simple phrase became a powerful mantra for her and her family, symbolizing resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

As Andrea fought valiantly against pancreatic cancer, she not only battled for herself but also for her family, demonstrating unwavering courage and determination.

Note: Tragically, Andrea’s fight against pancreatic cancer ended, but her story serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection and the power of family support during difficult times.

This journey underscores the need for awareness and understanding of pancreatic cancer, which affects thousands each year. For more information on treatment options and support, consider visiting organizations dedicated to cancer research and patient advocacy.