Unlocking the Secrets to Effective Treatments: Your Guide to Gathering Essential Information

Rich Grodin’s journey with stage IV pancreatic cancer began when he was just 48 years old. After experiencing persistent stomach discomfort and debilitating back pain following a family ski trip, he sought medical help. Initially given antacids, his condition worsened, leading to imaging tests that unveiled a troubling diagnosis: a tumor on the head of his pancreas, which had spread to his liver.

The Shocking Diagnosis

Rich, a devoted athlete and health enthusiast, was blindsided by the news. The diagnosis not only affected him but rippled through his entire family, leaving them devastated and searching for answers. With a background in health advocacy—having co-founded the Global Lyme Alliance—Rich and his wife, Staci, knew they had to act quickly. They reached out to numerous medical professionals and gathered critical research, discovering invaluable resources through the Let’s Win Survivors Series online.

Seeking Expert Care

The Grodin family decided to consult with Dr. Allyson Ocean at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City. Dr. Ocean offered hope, emphasizing that despite the severity of Rich’s condition, they could confront the challenges ahead. Rich began treatment with FOLFIRINOX, a robust chemotherapy regimen. To complement this, he embraced a keto diet, engaged in yoga, and adopted various relaxation techniques, including reading and walking, when his energy allowed.

• Key Treatments and Lifestyle Changes:
  • Chemotherapy: FOLFIRINOX
  • Diet: Keto
  • Wellness Practices: Yoga, reading, walking
  • Supplements: Medical-grade CBD/THC for chemotherapy side effects

As a mother of three young children—ages 16, 11, and 7—Staci felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility. Balancing caregiving with her own emotional needs proved challenging, highlighting the often-overlooked burdens faced by caregivers in serious illness situations.

Transition to a PARP Inhibitor

After six months of treatment, Rich’s progress was evident—his scans and blood work showed significant improvement. This success allowed him to transition to Rubraca, an oral PARP inhibitor. Remarkably, seven years post-diagnosis, Rich remains disease-free, continuing his regimen of Rubraca, along with supplements, yoga, acupuncture, and regular exercise.

Giving Back to the Community

In 2018, the Grodins expanded their advocacy efforts by getting involved with Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer. They have actively participated in fundraising, organized events, and forged partnerships with brands like Veronica Beard to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research.

To hear more about their inspirational journey, watch Rich and Staci share their story in “Do What Makes You Happy.”

Rich’s story exemplifies resilience and the importance of community support in navigating the complexities of cancer treatment. It serves as a reminder of the strength found in family, friends, and shared experiences during life’s toughest battles.