Personal Stories Of Triumph Over Pancreatic Cancer

December 20, 2023

Precede Foundation

In the fight against pancreatic cancer, early detection is a very crucial ally, yet it remains elusive. Late-stage diagnoses limit treatment options, emphasizing the need for breakthroughs in early detection. Through personal stories of triumph, we find sources of inspiration, highlighting the transformative power of detecting pancreatic cancer early. These narratives illuminate a path where early detection becomes not just a medical strategy but a lifeline that can alter the trajectory of pancreatic cancer from despair to resilience.

As we delve into these personal stories of triumph, we want to illustrate the importance of early detection as more than a medical strategy; it’s a transformative force that turns stories of overcoming challenges into narratives of survival and strength. Through these stories, we want to inspire, teach and help everyone understand that the journey towards improved survival rates for pancreatic cancer begins with realizing the importance of the power of early detection.

Come with us as we explore inspiring stories of hope and strength—a journey through overcoming challenges, celebrating saved lives and the determined effort to recognize how crucial early detection can truly change the narrative of pancreatic cancer.

Ivy Duneier – Early Detection Of Pancreatic Cancer Saved My Life:

Ivy’s journey starts with her taking charge of her health. Initially diagnosed with pancreatitis, Ivy found relief when she followed a bland diet suggested by her gastroenterologist. But everything changed when Dr. Simeone got involved. Rather than accepting the initial diagnosis, Dr. Simeone persisted in exploring into the cause of Ivy’s discomfort. The result? Early detection of pancreatic cancer. Ivy stresses, “If I had waited another 6 months to see her, the cancer would have been at a later stage and my story would have ended very differently.” This powerful testimony illustrates the profound impact early detection can have on the trajectory of pancreatic cancer, turning a potentially devastating outcome into a story of survival.

Betty Dicker – I’m A BRCA-Positive And Survived Both Breast And Pancreatic Cancers:

Betty’s narrative unfolds on different aspects in the fight against cancer, genetic awareness and a commitment to early detection. Being BRCA positive, Betty faces the challenges of both breast and pancreatic cancers. A critical decision to undergo deep inferior epigastric perforator reconstruction surgery after breast removal unknowingly played an important role in saving her life from another life-threatening disease—pancreatic cancer. Betty’s story highlights the profound impact that early detection, proactive genetic testing and vigilant surveillance can have on not just one, but on different aspects of the battle against cancer.

Jamie Brickell – TrovaNow President And Pancreatic Cancer Survivor:

As TrovaNOW’s President, Jamie Brickell shares a remarkable story of pancreatic cancer diagnosis, treatment and triumph. Diagnosed in March 2020, Jamie’s journey introduces us to Dr. Diane Simeone and the team at NYU Langone Hospital. Within a week of diagnosis, Jamie started chemotherapy sessions, leading to a successful Whipple operation in July. Less than eight months after the initial diagnosis, Jamie received the life-changing news of being cancer-free. His story stands as a testament to the positive outcomes achievable when early detection becomes the basis of the battle against pancreatic cancer.

Facing a disease where the odds are often stacked against patients—only 25% surviving one year and fewer than 10% reaching the five-year mark—Jamie’s story highlights the critical importance of early detection. Recognizing the significance of this, Jamie felt compelled to contribute to the cause. Inspired by the work of his surgeon, Dr. Diane Simeone, who helped found PRECEDE with a mission to raising the five-year survival rate to 50%, Jamie decided to actively participate and make a difference in any way he could.

Jamie’s journey is a call for increased awareness, research and support for organizations dedicated to early detection. His commitment is a source of hope for those dealing with the challenges of pancreatic cancer.

Stuart Rickerson – TrovaNow Board Member And Pancreatic Cancer Survivor Commitment to Change:

Stuart’s story extends beyond personal triumph to a commitment to change the narrative around pancreatic cancer. Designating himself as a leader in transforming the perception of pancreatic cancer from a “deadly diagnosis” to a “chronic condition,” Stuart emphasizes how important early detection is in this shift. His journey not only highlights the urgency for increased survival rates but also invites us to consider the transformative potential of early detection initiatives. Stuart’s narrative calls for collective action, urging readers to join the cause through small but impactful contributions.

Laurie MacCaskill – 18 Years As A Pancreatic Cancer Survivor:

Laurie’s story echoes with resilience, gratitude and a celebration of life. Diagnosed 18 years ago, Laurie overcame the challenging statistics associated with pancreatic cancer. Embracing the gift of time, Laurie shares her journey of not just surviving but thriving. Facing cancer twice, Laurie’s perspective on life has been profoundly shaped by her experiences. Her story serves as a testament to the strength that arises from adversity and the transformative power of early detection, which enabled her to celebrate nearly two decades as a pancreatic cancer survivor.

These stories together, forming a picture of overcoming pancreatic cancer, extend beyond individual experiences. They represent hope and as we traverse through personal triumph over pancreatic cancer, a common thread emerges—the undeniable impact of early detection.

As we delve into these stories, the overarching message becomes clear: early detection can be a game-changer. By sharing these narratives, we aim to inspire and inform. The path towards improved survival rates for pancreatic cancer begins with stories like these—stories that advocate for early detection, share triumphs over adversity and offer hope for a future where pancreatic cancer is detected early, treated effectively and lives are saved.

Explore more survivor stories on our website: https://www.trovanow.com/, each journey one of triumph over pancreatic cancer. Join us in rewriting the story of pancreatic cancer and witness not only the resilience that transforms these challenges into victories but also celebrate the strength of survivors and the progress made in early detection.

Your involvement matters and even a small donation can create a significant impact on our mission. By supporting TrovaNow, you contribute to ongoing research, awareness initiatives and the development of early detection methods. Together, let’s make a big impact on the fight against pancreatic cancer and hope for a future where more lives are saved. Join the cause and be a part of rewriting the story of pancreatic cancer.

Knowing When To Ask For Help

There’s strength in recognizing when you need additional support. If you’re feeling consistently overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, it may be time to speak with a healthcare professional. Warning signs can include ongoing sleep trouble, loss of appetite, or emotional numbness.

Mental health care is an important part of cancer recovery. There are therapists, social workers, and cancer-specific counselors trained to support your unique needs. Don’t hesitate to seek them out.

Your medical team can help adjust medications or recommend physical therapy if your symptoms are impacting your daily life. Being honest about your struggles allows your care providers to offer better, more personalized support.

The path to recovery from pancreatic cancer is rarely straightforward. It’s a mix of triumphs and setbacks, strength and vulnerability. But through each high and low, healing is happening. Be gentle with yourself. Allow space for rest, reflection, and growth.

You don’t have to go through this journey alone. With the right support, emotional, physical, and practical, you can move forward, one step at a time. And remember, every day you show up for yourself is a victory.

At TrovaNOW, we’re focused on finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. Every test and discovery brings us closer to better treatments and saving lives. Join us and learn more at TrovaNOW.

PRECEDE Foundation Inaugural Gala

Join us for a night at the Tribeca Rooftop 360 on October 28th at 3:00pm PDT to honor the following awards:

Nobility in Science Award

Raymond C. Wadlow, MD

Catalyst for Change Award

Ambry Genetics Corporation

Legacy Awards

Jeffrey Johnson, Esq.

Jonathan Morris, Esq.

PRECEDE Leadership and Compassionate Care Award

Jessica Everett, MS, CGC

Co-Chairs

Scott Berger | Michael Gershenson | Tracy Chen

Honorary Chairs

Diane Simeone, MD | Jamie Brickell

Get tickets here.

A Long and Steadfast Battle Against a Terrible Cancer

Raymond Wadlow lost his mom, Emily Couric, to pancreatic cancer in 2001. Today he’s an oncologist pushing for early detection.

Why Building Muscle Matters (Strength Training After Cancer Treatment)

Cancer treatment is an incredibly challenging journey, often leaving survivors physically and emotionally drained. While survival is the primary goal, the road to recovery requires more than just healing from the illness itself, it requires rebuilding strength and endurance. One of the most effective ways to regain strength and improve quality of life after treatment is through strength training.

In this blog, we’ll explore why building muscle matters after cancer treatment, how strength training supports recovery, and why it’s important to include physical activity in a full recovery plan.

The Importance of Muscle Health in Cancer Recovery

During cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy and radiation, the body goes through a variety of changes, including significant muscle loss. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and a decrease in overall functional capacity. Survivors may also experience joint pain, decreased bone density, and difficulty with mobility. When muscles are weakened, it becomes more difficult to perform everyday tasks, affecting the ability to return to normal life.

Muscle health is crucial for maintaining daily functioning, increasing stamina, and improving the body’s ability to heal. Building muscle after cancer treatment can help counteract the physical decline caused by treatments, reduce fatigue, and increase energy levels. Strong muscles are also important for stability, balance, and preventing falls or injuries, which can be especially crucial as the body regains strength.

Benefits of Strength Training After Cancer Treatment

Physical Benefits

Strength training is an excellent way to rebuild muscle mass lost during cancer treatment. By focusing on resistance exercises that challenge the muscles, you can restore strength and regain physical independence. Whether through bodyweight exercises, free weights, or resistance bands, strength training helps increase muscle mass, boost stamina, and promote flexibility.

It also improves bone density, which is particularly important for cancer survivors who may be at risk of osteoporosis due to treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapy. As you build muscle, you reduce the risk of bone fractures and improve posture and stability.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Physical activity, especially strength training, has significant mental health benefits. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that help reduce anxiety and depression. Cancer survivors often experience feelings of helplessness and loss of control. Strength training helps you regain control over your body, build confidence, and feel accomplished.

Strength training offers mental benefits like improved mood and focus. Research shows that regular exercise can also help manage the cognitive effects of cancer treatment, such as “chemo brain,” which can cause memory issues, difficulty concentrating, and brain fog. Strength training can improve cognitive function, helping survivors feel more mentally sharp and focused.

Long-Term Health Benefits

Strength training can help prevent long-term complications of cancer treatment. Conditions such as sarcopenia (muscle wasting) and metabolic syndrome, which involves high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels, are common among cancer survivors. Building muscle through strength training can help manage these conditions and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Muscle health supports overall immune function and metabolism. Strong muscles help regulate blood sugar levels, enhance circulation, and improve the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, critical for recovery and long-term health.

The Science Behind Strength Training for Cancer Survivors

Strength training works by creating small tears in muscle fibers, which, when repaired, become stronger over time. After cancer treatment, the body may be in a weakened state, but through consistent resistance training, it begins to rebuild muscle tissue. This process is essential for improving muscle mass and overall body strength.

Strength training promotes hormone regulation, which can be disrupted by cancer treatments. Chemotherapy and hormone therapy often interfere with estrogen and testosterone levels. Regular strength training helps balance these hormones, which can improve mood, energy levels, and general well-being.

Studies have shown that strength training can help cancer survivors reduce fatigue, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight. This holistic approach is vital to fully recovering from the effects of cancer treatment and returning to a normal, active lifestyle.

Key Considerations When Starting Strength Training Post-Treatment

Starting strength training after cancer treatment should be approached with care. The body may be more sensitive and vulnerable in the recovery phase, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or physical therapist before beginning an exercise program.

Start Slow and Progress Gradually: Don’t jump into intense workouts right away. Begin with low-impact exercises that focus on mobility, flexibility, and core strength. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your body adapts. Listen to your body, rest when needed, and avoid pushing too hard.
Focus on Recovery and Balance: Incorporating rest days into your routine is just as important as training days. Overtraining can lead to injury or burnout, so make sure you balance strength training with adequate recovery. This includes prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and hydration as part of your overall fitness plan.
Adapt Exercises to Your Body’s Needs: Cancer treatment can result in lingering side effects like joint pain, fatigue, and reduced range of motion. Modify exercises to accommodate these challenges. Resistance bands and light weights can be excellent starting points for those who need to ease into strength training.

Effective Strength Training Exercises for Cancer Survivors

Cancer survivors can begin their strength training journey with simple, low-impact exercises that target the major muscle groups. Here are some effective exercises to get started:

Bodyweight Squats: Squats are a great full-body exercise that targets the legs, glutes, and core. Start by performing shallow squats and gradually increase the depth as you build strength.
Wall Push-ups: Wall push-ups are an excellent way to build upper body strength without straining the shoulders or wrists. As you gain strength, progress to standard push-ups or modified knee push-ups.
Resistance Band Exercises: Resistance bands are perfect for adding gentle resistance to exercises like bicep curls, shoulder presses, and leg extensions. They provide controlled resistance that’s easier on the joints.
Dumbbell Exercises: Once you’ve built up some strength, you can incorporate light dumbbells for exercises like lunges, chest presses, and rows to continue building muscle.
Core Workouts: Strengthening your core is essential for improving balance and stability. Exercises like planks, bird dogs, and leg raises are great for building a solid foundation of strength.

Building a Strength Training Routine

Creating a strength training routine that fits your needs is essential for long-term success. Here are some tips for creating a sustainable workout plan:

Frequency: Aim for two to three strength training sessions per week, spaced out to allow for adequate recovery.
Duration: Start with 20-30 minute sessions and gradually increase the time as your body becomes more accustomed to the routine.
Progression: Increase the resistance, repetitions, or sets as you build strength. A good rule of thumb is to challenge your muscles without overexerting yourself.
Consistency: Make strength training a regular part of your life, but be patient with the process. Progress may be slow, but every step forward is a victory.

Building muscle after cancer treatment is a powerful tool in the recovery process. Strength training not only helps rebuild muscle mass and physical strength, but it also provides emotional and mental benefits that can enhance overall well-being. By embracing a thoughtful, gradual approach to strength training, cancer survivors can regain control of their bodies, improve their health, and achieve a higher quality of life. Remember, consistency is key, strength comes over time.

In 2025, TrovaNow is expanding its impact—with a 40% increase in fundraising goals and more research sites dedicated to supporting cancer recovery. Visit www.trovanow.com to see how you can get involved and donate today.