Ron
Ron, 69 diagnosed with inoperable
pancreatic adenocarcinoma in March 2009 which had spread to the
liver
I first started experiencing itching all over my body in October
2008, this soon developed into jaundice. After extensive blood
tests and a CT scan I was diagnosed five months later in March 2009
with pancreatic cancer. Because the tumour is at the head of the
pancreas, this can make it extremely difficult to be detected and
thus it can only been seen when it is further advanced. At this
stage apart from the itching and abnormal liver count I was feeling
very well.
I was scheduled for a Whipples operation mid March 2009 but
unfortunately this could not be carried out as it was found that
the cancer had spread to the liver. A palliative operation was
carried out instead to prevent me from being jaundiced. I was told
that I had six months to a year to live at this stage. I was
discharged from hospital after two weeks but a drainage site from
the operation turned septic and made me feel very poorly for a
time.
After a few months I started a course of chemotherapy, which
initially was successful in reducing the tumour. During this chemo
treatment I experienced the usual discomforts of losing my taste
and extreme tiredness. I also experienced flu-like symptoms
immediately after chemo but this only lasted for a few hours each
session. Luckily I didn't lose my hair. I kept my spirits up by
looking forward to family parties and regular outings with my wife
and daughter.
In time the chemotherapy ceased to work as it was found that the
tumour had grown, so subsequently the chemo was stopped.
Several months elapsed before I took part in a Phase 1 Study
which wasn't very successful as I was getting unwanted side effects
so the treatment was stopped. I again carried on without any chemo
and decided I could do with a holiday, so my daughter and
son-in-law took my wife and I to Tenerife where I had a terrific
holiday. After coming back from Tenerife I wanted to go on holiday
again so my wife and I booked a holiday to Egypt and again had a
terrific time. I must add that I was unable to get insurance for my
condition and just did a lot of praying. I am determined to enjoy
my life and I am always looking forward to either a holiday or a
party.
During all this treatment I still find time to help raise money
for pancreatic cancer research by have a Christmas bazaar and table
top sales on year and the following year we held a coffee
afternoon. Over £1,200 went to Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund and
over £600 went to Pancreatic Cancer UK. We are now planning another
table-top sale for Pancreatic Cancer UK. I could not do this
without the continued help of my family who give up a lot of their
spare time trying to raise awareness of this devastating
cancer.
I am now on another Phase 1 trial and am doing very well apart
from occasionally feeling tired, but it is too early to know
whether this trial will be beneficial.
I sincerely believe that my attitude to life has kept me alive
this long. I set myself goals, for example a birthday party,
anniversary party or the arrival of a new grandchild. My family
offer me great support and cheer me up when I am feeling low.
Last but not least I must mention all the hospital staff,
doctors and nurses who have been involved in my care. They do their
utmost to help me and their expertise, encouragement and dedication
help me no end. In every oncology clinic which I have attended the
doctors and nurses have shown me so much kindness and consideration
way above which can normally be expected. They love their job and
it truly shows. Their kindness is humbling.
March 2011