November is Pancreatic

Cancer Awareness

Month

This is my mom’s story…

This woman was amazing. She was warm and inviting, and always opened her heart to everyone.

She gave everything, and never expected anything in return.

I thought she was completely invincible.

Then on February 8, 2013 – a pain she had been feeling in her stomach became too much for her to handle, so she went to the ER. After some testing, she was admitted.

Nothing could have prepared her, or anyone, for the news that was coming.

She was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer, and it had already spread to her liver. Despite the horrible news, she stayed strong during her time at the hospital – even after suffering two strokes.

She never wanted anyone to worry about her, and didn’t want to let go of control. But everyone’s love and support was more than evident.

Her room literally filled up with flowers, balloons and cards. The never-ending love from everyone was truly amazing.

After a couple weeks in the hospital, she was sent home. No treatment was available due to the severity of the cancer, so all we could do was keep her in good spirits, and try to make her as happy and comfortable as possible.

Her room very quickly filled up even more with flowers and cards from everyone. Her face lit up every time she got something new in the mail.

Having her home was a huge relief. Her good days were amazing. She would be alert, trying to communicate, smiling constantly, making jokes, even eating occasionally. We all loved it.

But of course, there were bad days. Some days, she wouldn’t take her medicine, she seemed angry and frustrated… and there was nothing any of us, even the Hospice nurses, could do to help her.

No matter what, though, she was always surrounded by people who loved her. Even though she couldn’t express her appreciation, I know it meant the world to her.

We had a priest come over for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. What a blessing that was, for my mom and for everyone.

Inevitably, her condition declined… very quickly. After 5 great days, she just didn’t wake up one morning. From that point on, for only a few more days, she was in a comatose state. But her support system never left her side.

On the afternoon of March 19, 2013, surrounded by people who love her – and with her hand in mine – she peacefully took her last breath.

The support that everyone gave to my mom was now focused on the people that she left behind. And I can never thank everyone enough for that. Saying goodbye to the most important person in my life was, and still is, the biggest struggle of my life.

Now all we have left are all the great memories of her, her writing on my arm, a beautiful headstone that I know she would be proud of, and an amazing guardian angel.

Love you forever and ever.

11/8/49 – 3/19/13

There isn’t nearly enough awareness for this horrible disease, and far too many misdiagnoses and missed warning signs.

Spread the word that November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.