Christopher’s Pancreatic Cancer Story

I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on August 26, 2021, marking the beginning of an extremely difficult period in my life. For the first month following my diagnosis, I withdrew into a noticeable funk and opted to watch TV and smoke cigarettes in quiet despair. It took me a bit to realize there were two big reasons to fight for my life – my wife and son. My oncologist suggested I might be a suitable candidate for the Whipple Procedure and referred me to a surgeon in Atlanta. Unfortunately, I was considered non-resectable and unable to get the recommended surgery.

My treatment included enduring 12 rounds of chemotherapy. Despite the difficulties, I remained positive while looking for a surgeon willing to take a chance on me. Eventually, I found a great surgeon, Dr. Mark Truty, at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

My Experience Consulting with a NPF Center of Excellence, The Mayo Clinic, Rochester

The trip to the Mayo Clinic was a long drive from where we lived at the time and presented a hardship to our family. However, we made it safely and completed all the appointments. We found that the staff and doctors at the Mayo Clinic were truly amazing. Dr. Truty was down to earth and very transparent. He even took extra time to answer questions from my then five-year-old son. Dr. Truty’s personalized attention made us feel confident in his medical assessment and happy that we made the decision to travel to see him.

Acknowledging the Special Role of our Loved Ones and Caregivers

I am sure many people can understand the emotional and physical burden experienced by those in supportive roles for patients enduring medical hardships. In my own personal experience, I can attest that my own family structure was placed under great strain by the many stressors that came because of my unplanned health crisis. For those in similar circumstances, I recommend the NPF as a valuable resource hub for online peer support. Also, consider seeking advice from a mental health professional to help guide your family through any challenges.

Aspiring to Assist Others Navigate Through Pancreas Disease

I am ready to help anyone in any way I can. When I was in the throes of my illness, I could have benefited from someone who could resonate with my experience. I found that combatting my emotional and mental pain was harder than overcoming my physical pain. I tried a lot of different things – many of which were highly destructive to the well-being of myself and my family.

Subsequently, I believe that 1:1 peer-to-peer coaching can be an effective strategy to try, especially when other coping techniques fail. Because of this, I want to support others as they fight through the challenges related to pancreas disease. I believe that our scientific community will eventually find a cure for pancreatic cancer. As a person regarded as a walking miracle, I know it is possible to overcome your disease. Stay in faith and remain hopeful!