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Roxanne Waling’s Journey: A Triumph Over Pancreatic Cancer
In November 2012, Roxanne Waling received a life-altering diagnosis: stage III inoperable pancreatic cancer. Despite her active lifestyle and previous battle with breast cancer in 2002, she found herself facing a devastating reality. Roxanne’s path to recovery is a testament to resilience, medical advances, and the importance of seeking second opinions.
Early Symptoms and Diagnosis
Roxanne’s ordeal began in August 2012, when she experienced a sudden loss of appetite and sporadic pain under her left rib cage. Initially, she attributed her discomfort to long hours spent driving for her job as an account executive in the environmental services sector. A visit to her internist in September led to normal pancreatic enzyme tests, but the persistent pain prompted further investigation.
- Symptoms: Loss of appetite, rib pain, back pain
- Initial Tests: Normal pancreatic enzymes
- Follow-Up: CT scan revealing a lesion on the pancreas
On November 16, 2012, a CT scan revealed a lesion on her pancreas, confirming the worst fears: pancreatic cancer.
A Challenging Diagnosis and Genetic Insights
After her diagnosis, Roxanne was referred to Dr. Bing Yi, a skilled surgeon in South Carolina, who delivered the sobering news that her tumor was inoperable due to its proximity to an artery. A biopsy confirmed the presence of adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form of pancreatic cancer. Genetic testing revealed a significant finding: Roxanne was BRCA2 positive, linking her past breast cancer to her current diagnosis.
- Diagnosis: Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas
- Genetic Testing: Positive for BRCA2 mutation
Initiating Chemotherapy Treatment
Roxanne started chemotherapy at St. Francis Cancer Center in December 2012. However, concerned about her prognosis, she sought a second opinion at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where her treatment approach began to shift.
- Initial Survival Rate: Only 5% chance of surviving five years
- Chemotherapy Regimen: FOLFIRINOX
During her time at CTCA, Roxanne experienced a remarkable turnaround. After just a few chemotherapy sessions, a follow-up scan revealed that her tumor had shrunk significantly, making it potentially operable.
The Road to Whipple Surgery
On September 25, 2013, Roxanne underwent a Whipple procedure, an extensive surgery where 60% of her pancreas and several other organs were removed. This surgical intervention was deemed necessary due to her BRCA2 mutation, prompting additional preventive measures, including a complete hysterectomy in 2014.
- Surgery Date: September 25, 2013
- Surgical Procedures: Whipple surgery, complete hysterectomy
Embracing Life Beyond Cancer
Roxanne’s journey didn’t stop at surgery. She remained vigilant with regular PET scans and actively participated in supporting other pancreatic cancer patients. In 2014, she became involved with Cancer Fighters, sharing her inspiring story of survival.
By 2016, Roxanne returned to her passion for golf and began working part-time with a senior care organization, finding fulfillment in helping others. Celebrating her five-year milestone as a pancreatic cancer survivor, she embarked on a breathtaking 12-day river cruise through Europe.
- Survivorship Milestone: Five years cancer-free
- Current Activities: Golf, senior care work
Roxanne Waling exemplifies the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity. Her story is not just about survival; it’s a celebration of life, hope, and the unyielding strength of the human spirit.
For more on Roxanne’s incredible journey, watch her share her experiences in “The Optimist.”
