Hi Grahame (and Chris)
I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on September 1st 2022 at age 77. Initially I was keen on having the Whipple procedure but I had to undergo chemo first, to kill the
cancer cells that had spread to the four nearest lymph glands. (I was diagnosed quite early because of jaundice caused by a duct blockage between pancreas and liver.)
But unhappily I had a devastating reaction to the chemo, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, nausea and extreme stomach cramps. After three fortnightly doses I decided not to continue. At that point, death would have been welcome. I feared that the Whipple procedure would cause more digestive distress than I could bear, so I chickened out. I then had five weeks of radiation therapy. A few weeks later, another CT scan showed the primary cancer had shrunk to 2cm and the ducts and lymph glands were clear! Three months later, my most recent CT scan showed even more shrinkage of the tumour. All my vitals and blood tests were excellent, even for a 77 year old grandmother! The only meds that I took between the scans was medical CBD oil so that was interesting!? My next scan is due on October 25 so I will keep you updated. (Sorry this is so long but I’m hoping my little successes will give your wife some extra positivity.)
I send my best wishes and heartfelt sympathy to Chris. I hope she goes from strength to strength, and I’m sure your support means the world to her. I now live with my daughter who is my carer, secretary, cook, chauffeur and shoulder to cry on. She has been absolutely remarkable and I know you will be the same for your wife. Bless you both. Please keep posting!
