The Back Alley Archives

Yes, I was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer on August 1st of 2007. I’m doing very well – recuperating from major surgery (Whipple) in April and working on regaining the 60 pounds I lost following the surgery. I’ve gained about 20 back and am now trying to build up my strength and stamina. I underwent 5 months of weekly chemo and 5 weeks of daily radiation treatments, followed by the surgery. The surgery took a lot out of me – both literally and physically – but, I went back to work this week (8/4). Pancreatic cancer has a very low survival rate, but I’m really a walking miracle because in spite of CTs and biopsies confirming the Pancreatic Cancer, and in spite of the fact the location and growth of the tumors (2) was tracked and noted by at least 6 surgical oncologists, there was “no evidence of tumors” when the surgeon opened me up. He opted to proceed with the Whipple as a precaution because if even one malignant cell was left behind, there would be a recurrence. The surgery is tough, but just the fact I’m still living has beaten the predicted odds. Every chance I get, I encourage support for pancreatic cancer research in the hopes of finding a cure for this dreaded disease. The support I have received from family, friends, co-workers and the triathlon community has been incredible, and it made an enormous difference throughout my treatments and recovery from surgery.