I to have pancreatic cancer

Jim5523 · New User Joined: 25 Aug 2006 Posts: 6

I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer May 2005. I took chemo until October 2005, then I had a whipple operation. In December 2005 I started with Chemo again, and had another operation because of scar tissue blocking mt intestine. The operation took 8 to 12 months to recover from. I also took ratiation treatment for about 30 sessions. At this time my CA-19 Marker test is around 360. There was no evidence of recurrent cancer on my CAT scan. I am now again taking chemo every 2 weeks. I have a bad feeling because of my high tumor marker test results. I have been fighting this cancer around 20 months at this time. I am available to answer questions about myself.

freeio · Posted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 1:22 pm Post subject: Welcome

Welcome to the forum, Jim. There are others of us here who are continuing to fight pancreatic cancer, well beyond the three-to-four months that seems to be the standard prediction for living beyond initial diagnosis. With aggressive treatment, even pancreatic cancer can sometimes be held at bay.

I am at the two and a half year point, and after two episodes where I was given three to four months to live, am feeling better now than I have in several years. My last CA19-9 reading was 41 in October, after reaching a high of 76 in September. The thing to remember is that CA19-9 is not particularly selective as an indicator, and can show positive readings from other causes.

Every case is different. Mine has been all over the map. If you are interested in seeing what I have been through since September of 2004, check out my pancreatic cancer blog:

http://diehlmartin.com/cancer.html
_________________
-------------------------------------------------
whipple procedure, Oct. 21, 2004
28 days of radiation
56 days of Chemo using Xeloda
diagnosed as progressive recurrent pancreatic adenocarcinoma (Stage IV) Jun. 20, 2006
was treated with gemcitabine, oxaliplatin, and tarceva, which all failed.
Cancer blog: http://diehlmartin.com/cancer.html

Jim5523 · New User Joined: 25 Aug 2006 Posts: 6

I have been following your personal web site for a long time. I notice you post almost everyday and I do read all your updates. I am glad you are having great success. I also have deen denied numerous treatments fron Anthum Blue Cross but after appeals I have gotten everything approveded other than PET Scans. My CA-19 marker was 4, 16, 44, 90, 180, 360 so I am extremely concerned. I have however had two recient CAT Scans that could not show anything. Since my CA-19 results have basically been doubling I am very troubled. I know test results can give false positives, but with the consistancy of mine? My doctor put me on chemo a second time because of the CA-19 results. He stated verbally that he thought my cancer was back, but we are only truely chasing a number at this time. Thank you for the response and I will continue to follow your story. The main reason I responded was because you know of no one else surviving a long time and I felt I am somewhat in your shoes.

KRay · Posted: Sat Feb 03, 2007 10:32 am Post subject: Re: I to have pancreatic cancer

I also had Pancreatic Cancer that was diagnosed on 12-3-2005. I have been very blessed by the Lord. I had the Whipple procedure on 12-16-2005 and a tough two months followed. My cancer was a T2 but had not spread. Two different Oncologists agreed that since it had not spread Chemo would not be a benefit. I still have the usual effects of the Whipple procedure but other than that I feel good. My first checkup after the Whipple was on Aug 29 2006. The CT scan was clear along with a MRCP and a Liver Biopsy. Some of these tests were conducted due to an abnormal high AlkP test. This was later determined to be caused by medication and has since returned to normal. My next cancer check will be in March. I have also followed Martin's posting with great interest. Jim, Martin and you both have been faced with this longer than I have but hope is always there. Like all of us, I realize that the Cancer can return but my faith will carry me regardless. My experience has not been as bad as what you two have faced but we are all in this together and sharing experiences may give hope to others.
Keep your faith.

roses4evver · Regular Joined: 16 Dec 2006 Posts: 30

Hi Jim

I would like to say I am so so sorry for what you are going through and I know how hard it is. My husband passed away about 5 wks ago of pancreatic & liver cancer. You are very fortunate to have been able to battle your cancer for 24 months unlike others who don't have those options. One being my husband who only had 2 wks to accept his destiny & then I was alone. I know how hard it must be for you, but please keep thinking posative! I believe there are always miracles! I was curious though because you mentioned you were a little frightened over your cancer marker number. May I ask what was your last cancer marker figure?
Your in my prayers!

Jim5523 · New User Joined: 25 Aug 2006 Posts: 6

My CA-19 test results have been 4,16,24,60,130,160, and 340. My CAT Scan showed nothing out of line. My doctor stated recurrent cancer to the insurance company, and my CT Scan showed non recurrent. I am hoping my chemo can kill floating cells if they are present.

Feel free to ask any questions.

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