Valentine's Day this year marked a year since my mam (72 at  the time) was diagnosed with stage 4 pancan which had spread to her lungs. 2.5cm tumour on head of pancreas. Her only symptom was jaundice. She had a stent fitted and a biopsy which gave her pancreatitis and landed her in hospital for a week. We all thought she may not make it home. 

At the time of diagnosis her CA19-9 was roughly 2500. She had 7 rounds of 80% folfirinox and then a further 4 at 60% due to worsening neuropathy. Her last treatment was mid September 2025. After 5 rounds the CT scan showed the lung lesions (which were described as innumerable and were around 9mm)  had shrunk by around 50%, with a stable primary. Her second CT scan after finishing chemo showed the lung lesions reduced by a further 1-2cm and stable primary. At this time her CA19-9 was 154. She had another blood test 7 weeks after the last chemo and it had reduced to just 42! 

We are currently waiting to hear the results from her latest CT scan, but given the bloods are hopeful for stability and a longer chemo break. 

To reclaim Valentine's back from pancan, on Saturday she had a "not dead yet" party and drank large amounts of rum!

We feel so lucky she is still here and fighting, but also realistically know how quickly things can turn so aren't taking anything for granted. Anyway I thought this might make some people smile so I wanted to share. 

Pic is my mam and me this Christmas.

My mam