Test Results

The CAT scan indicates the tumor shrunk, but it's still appears to be connected to veins & arteries in his pancreas. The bottom line is that an operation poses big risks, hardship and discomfort with little benefit in terms of longevity. Pa has to chew on this and decide if he wants to pursue the surgical route. His inclination is to forego surgery and opt for continued oral chemo and pain management.

Pa is still recovering from his chemo and radiation therapies, but seems to be improving and we expect that he will continue to feel better. He will have another consultation on 7/5. His doctor is bringing his case to the review board at Roswell for a final review of the treatment (or end of treatment) decision.

Pa seems to be at peace with the situation. In a way, we all seem to be. But at the same time, it could just be the calm before the storm. In the meantime, we are talking about the possibility of a trip to Italy.

Joe Chilberg

Recent Article

6/8/05 article about pancreatic cancer.

Had a visit yesterday

Pa seemed well, but said he's in a lot of pain. He seems to be eating better, though. He also mentioned that he manages to get out in the garden a little bit.

This Thursday - 6/16 - he goes for the follow-up CT scan and then he has an appointment on 6/24 to get the news on the effects of the chemo-radiation therapy on the tumor.

Thanks to Jan for these pictures: