Donna’s Story

Site created on October 20, 2022

On August 30th, Mom called me to take her to the hospital with severe stomach pain.  In the ER they discovered two gallstones lodged in her bile duct.  She was admitted into the hospital, and the next day they performed an ERCP procedure during which they discovered the bile duct was being compressed with an abnormal growth in the pancreas.  A follow-up procedure was scheduled to investigate further, and on September 22 they found a small, cancerous tumor located in the head of her pancreas. The Doctor reviewed potential treatment options with her, and her case was also reviewed by a collection of doctors referred to as "the tumor board," who agreed that if this tumor responds to treatment it might be possible to remove via robotic surgery.   So, here we are!  Mom began a "moderate" chemo treatment on October 6th, and she will follow a chemo cycle of one treatment per week for 3 weeks, then one week off, then another 3 weeks on and one week off.  After the first cycle, they'll run some more scans to see how the tumor (and Mom) are responding, and determine next steps. We will be providing updates on Mom's condition as we progress along this journey.  Thank you in advance to all who will be remembering Mom in your prayers! 

Newest Update

Journal entry by Donna Nelson

God is so good.  Yesterday when I saw my Doctor, he said all my labs were good and he was very upbeat and encouraging.  My Ca19-9 had not been read yet so he told me to remember that the numbers would keep going up but not to be concerned about the number because the scan was very good and showed no growth or nothing that would indicate more cancer.  So he said to keep on fighting.  Praise the Lord.  So I contimue to keep on getting chemo every two weeks.  Along with my Savior giving me strength for each day I would appreciate your prayers because I feel that is what keeps me going.  Blessing to you all.
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Donna Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Donna's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top