We have detected that JavaScript is currently disabled. CaringBridge is best viewed with JavaScript enabled.

Kristi’s Story

Site created on March 19, 2023

My dear friends & loved ones,

I am currently experiencing a health issue for which I request your earnest prayers.

Until January 2023, I've experienced a very healthy life, but in mid-January I became jaundiced. A subsequent ultrasound of my gallbladder revealed that I had a blocked bile duct and a stent was surgically placed to unblock duct the next day. While doing so, the surgeon noticed my pancreas had become enlarged and was causing the blockage.

The enlarged pancreas became an immediate cause for concern, as this often signals pancreatic cancer, and over the next few weeks a spate of different tests were conducted.

Initial results caused us to think I had dodged a bullet, as two pancreatic biopsies came back either inconclusive or cancer free, and a second cancer marker test’s results were normal, but in early March a PET scan conclusively revealed results which really whiplashed us; doctors found a small area of cancer on the head of my pancreas.

The good news is that they feel we caught it very early, and the cancer looks to still be localized and has not spread. Thus, I am among only 15% of those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer who qualify for a Whipple procedure - the only pancreatic cancer treatment with the potential to be curative.

The Whipple surgery has been around since the 1930's and is a 5 -7 hour open surgery where one’s gallbladder, the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine and the end of the bile duct are removed; then the remaining parts of the bile duct and pancreatic duct are routed to the lower intestine to aid digestion.

My surgery is set for Tuesday, Mar 21st at 7:30 am, and recovery will be at least two months.

I look forward to communicating with my friends and loved ones by regularly updating this online page.

Dan and I are people of faith and believe that prayer changes things; for His eye is on the sparrow, and I KNOW he watches me.

Thank you for your love and prayers,

Kristi

Newest Update

Journal entry by Kristi Cleary — Apr 16, 2024

Dearest Friends,

Jumping on to tell you my 3 month scans came back all clear! (NED- no evidence of disease).

My bloodwork also came back and all is looking good. My CA19-9 (cancer blood marker) dropped from 7 to 6! Normal range is 0-37.
I've gained 18 lbs since Sept and have continued to keep it on. At this rate, I'll be joining weight watchers sometime next year! 😄

There is so much for which to be grateful. I am especially grateful for all of your precious prayers for me. I feel them and I thank you so very much!

Please share the good news of God"s Mercy and Grace. He is truly amazing!

Love you all!
Kristi

Read More of the journal titled "April 16, 2024"

Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.

Help Kristi Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Kristi'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

Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

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

Personal Fundraiser

Support Links

Helpful Requests

Go to Ways to Help