Jan’s hope for the future
“My hope for the future is, of course, earlier detection of these sneaky cancers. Our GPs education needs to increase regarding signs and symptoms. With Pancare in our corner working towards a higher public profile, and increasing research into chemo and treatments, I am very hopeful we will see people living longer and, potentially, being cured.”- Jan Reed.
The above was written by an exceptional lady named Jan Reed from Williamstown. Jan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in her 70s and was closer than most of us to medical issues being an Emergency Nurse and caring for patients.
“I had been feeling a bit nauseated for two weeks when I noticed I had very dark urine and pale poo. Then, I noticed my skin was jaundiced and my mind raced to determine what was occurring. I hoped it wasn’t pancreatic cancer and made an appointment with my GP to discuss my symptoms. He gave me Nexium and told me to come back after my holidays in Queensland if I still felt sick. Which I did.
“Then, I awoke to find I was definitely jaundiced but without any pain, ruling out gallstones, hepatitis and others I almost knew it was pancreatic cancer. Which it was. I had a CT scan and then an ultrasound which confirmed there was a 2cm mass at the head of my pancreas which was blocking the bile duct and gave my skin its yellow colour.
“Today, and after Whipple Surgery, I am nearly two years into remission and, fingers crossed, it will remain that way. I have changed my diet to a more positive consumption of meals while working with dieticians recommended through Pancare, and I love how they make me feel supported and understanding of my condition.
“If it wasn’t for a Pancare pamphlet in my hospital I don’t know how I could have discovered Pancare and the immense range of patient care they have. I think it should be given to all UGI cancer patients before they leave hospital.
“And finally, I would love to thank my medical and surgical teams and family for their incredible support. It makes such a marvellous difference working with Oncologists committed to making a positive difference in pancreatic cancer outcomes. My sisters and sons and daughter who shouldered the task of looking after me during my darkest hours and who never gave up. I can never thank them enough.”