It’s not the actual size of the tumor for surgery it’s whether the tumor is wrapped around the portal vein and  can involve other veins ,sometimes if it is chemo can be given to try and shrink the tumor so a Whipple can go ahead,when I had my surgery they couldn’t tell until they opened you up where nowadays they are much more advanced in knowing before surgery,so try and take it one day at a time until you know the full story of your Mums tumor involvement.I realise how hard the waiting is for the news and results of MRI. ... View more

Md The stent was put in for me as my tumor at the head of my pancreas was blocking my bile duct causing pain,jaundice,no appetite diareah and fatigue fevers .After the stent about a week later I felt better and had Whipple surgery a few weeks later as my general health improved .Anytime you have a Whipple means you have a better chance of survival ,compared to someone who isn’t eligible for the surgery .The tumor measured 3 cm.As to your Mum having no pain that can happen It unfortunately has no specific meaning for her ,but It’s good that she was diagnosed early and surgery is happening for her.   I had my surgery in a western suburbs public hospital of Melbourne,Victoria I can’t speak highly enough of my Surgeons and the nursing team. The earlier your Mum gets out of bed after surgery the quicker her recovery will happen,I was talking to my Surgeon a few months ago about Whipple surgery he said there has been advances since my surgery,with less pain a vertical cut compared to horizontal which is better,and a quicker recovery as long as the patient does what’s required.   Dont hesitate to ask any questions if I can answer I will ,I am into my ninth year of survival.Best wishes to your Mum and yourself. ... View more

Raevyn  Sometimes the pain medications can cause different mood swings and thoughts,it may also be how your Mum copes with the thought of death.An increase in pain is not good,occasionally the body can’t process the pain meds properly they build up causing confusion ,you are so right what is normal in this situation ,everyone is so different with the body’s and minds response.Also a lack of sleep does not help mind or body,Maybe some meds to help with sleep might help. ... View more

Hi Md As Kate replied I have had a Whipple I also had a stent put in to help before Whipple Surgery,If you have any questions please ask me . ... View more

Hi Donnat When having chemo as  individuals our body reacts differently my mate has chemo fortnightly he is on a maintenance program for rectal cancer has three days off work the week he has it ,then back at work till next dose,as chemos are different so are side effects,try and go there with a open mind,I had fatigue and nausea and little appetite during mine but friends with the same chemo had little or no side effects,drink lots of water to help flush your system,hoping your chemo treatment is not to harsh for you.Time will tell kj ... View more

Hi Raevyn My heart goes out to your Mum ,yourself and family,having palliative care involved will help control your Mums pain,you will have to be guided by the medical team as her disease progresses further, as to the options available,I have a relative with bipolar 2 who is on meds and for the most part they are ok,Gee you are doing an incredible job of being there for your Mum without meds,but you must also try and look after yourself I know it’s easy for me to say but if you become very unwell,you won’t be able to help Mum or yourself,have you had a chat to a medical professional about your  situation.   I have had friends pass from this disease with similar prognosis to your Mum however they were having chemo.And the time frames involved were different. Take care of yourself also. Im not a carer of a terminal loved one so I can’t imagine the thoughts and stress you are going through.I hope another carer going through similar can provide more  helpful advice for you. Its great your husband and daughter are very caring and supportive at this terrible time in your life kj ... View more

Diane The time factor shouldn’t come in to it ,they can advise and oversee  medications to help make pain more bearable,among other things,yes the social worker ,or treating doctor should have the appropriate information to help with your query,ask as many questions as you need,being aware of theses services and how to benefit can help your father and family at this very hard time in your lives.Members of this site are only to glad to be of some help and comfort if at all possible. kj ... View more

Your father would definitely want you to enjoy time with your family and friends,it would make him happy inside knowing that you are away from watching his suffering for a time especially with the reality he is facing,at one stage I was diagnosed terminal with not long to live ,I wanted my family to be with me but not constantly,they need time away to process what the future held and also recharge their batteries ,fortunately for me the medics got it wrong ,so try not to feel guilty it’s time you need to yourself.Just continue loving and supporting  him.I have a daughter and seen the effect it has on family.   I watched my dad pass quickly from lung cancer at a very young age,now there are lots more professional advice around from psychologists to your GP don’t hesitate to ask for help if it’s needed,thoughts are with you.This site has a number to ring.   Are palliative care involved they can help enormously. ... View more

Colin  Its good your dizziness is not there, and that you are already focusing on the next stage when you are out of hospital,I admire your strength and spirit. kj ... View more

Colin It is good to read your surgery went well and that you are in good spirits,wishing you a speedy recovery from surgery. best wishes kj ... View more