Seeking Advice on Whipple Procedure for Pancreatic Cancer

Hi Elizabeth. My friend had whipple surgery for pancreatic cancer. It was very successful it extended her life by 7 years and they were good productive years until the last year. Hope that eases your mind. Pancreatic cancer treatments have come along way. Years ago people with pancreatic cancer were only given 6 months to a yr. Good luck for your father.

Karen thank you so very very much replying!!! ❤️ How old was your friend when when the surgery was performed and could you shed any light on how her recovery process went (any complications than length of recovery)? If not, of course that's okay too! I'm just so very thankful for your reply; every little bit of feedback so appreciated! I will add you to my prayers! God bless you Karen! ❤️ 🙏🙏🙏

Elizabeth hi again. My friend was 72 when she had surgery. Surgery took about 8 hrs but she did well only stayed in the hospital about 4 days. She became diabetic and needed to test her blood sugar and started chemo. She did well for about for about 5 yrs. She was able to go out and shop, visit friends, she still drove up until the last 6 months. She lived alone for about 6 and a half years. How old is your dad? How does he feel about his condition? Was he relatively healthy before? Just be there for him. Encourage him to get in some groups so he can talk to people who are going thru it too. It has helped me.

Karen thank you so much for all of your information, sharing and kind words! My dad decided against the surgery. He was in good health until he got sick and the chemo did a number on him! He is still headstrong and out mowing the lawn and walking and grocery shopping and... But I think if I understand correctly there might be another small window/opportunity after the next chemo round then he may be able to revisit the idea of surgery again. Right now it's just a lot of prayers! I'm praying for you as well Karen! Thank you and God bless! ❤️ 🙏🙏🙏

❤️❤️❤️❤️to you and your father

I’ve had the Whipple surgery for pancreatic adenocarcinoma in the head of my pancreas. I was told that you don’t turn down the whipple if given the chance. Only 20% of people are even eligible for the whipple and the sooner they can get the tumor out, the better. Less time for it to spread. That being said, it was a very hard surgery to recover from. I have heard horror stories but so far I am doing ok. Many people come out diabetic and need digestive enzymes in order to digest and absorb their food. There’s also dealing with all the issues that come with it. I’m not sure what I would do given the option again. I would choose nanoknife first if I could. My insurance wouldn’t cover it and I didn’t have the large amount of $ to pay out of pocket for it.

This community understands how difficult these treatment decisions can be, especially when facing pancreatic cancer. The Whipple procedure is a significant surgery that many families have navigated, and connecting with others who have experience with this procedure can provide valuable perspectives during this challenging time. Hopefully more community members will share their experiences and insights to help with this important decision.