Sheila

My Story is about Patient/me

This event took place from 12/14/2023 to 11/10/2025

The Discovery

I had different abdominal pain and than back pain. Went to MD because I knew I needed a CT. (I am a retired RN after 45 year career). CT lead to MRI
which lead to biopsy. The Gastroenterologist told me before the biopsy I had Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. This occurred in a 2 week time frame.

This is My Story

Take control of your healthcare! The healthcare system is difficult to navigate and you have to be your own advocate. Keep written records, names of healthcare personnel and always ask for clarification of test, treatments and outcomes . It is the only way to navigate your care. Your life and quality of life depends on it!

The Impact of Time

My early detection made a gigantic impact on my response to treatment. I knew instinctively something was wrong with me and advocated to get the testing and appointments I needed. I was never rude but VERY insistent when working with the healthcare system.
I am currently cancer free 15 months after completing 12 rounds of chemotherapy and a distal pancreatectomy, splenectomy and lymph node dissection.
My concept of time is pretty interesting. It seems so long ago in the past that I was diagnosed and went thru treatment even thought it is only 2 years. I appreciate my time now doing ordinary things more than before I was diagnosed. I am more particular about who I spend my time with and doing what I value and enjoy now after I had to make such serious decisions concerning treatment options.
I really try to not dwell on how much time I have left but instead try to make that time count.