John T.'s story

Diagnosed in May of 2008, John is finishing up his treatment of post surgery chemotherapy. His journey began in the summer of 2007 when he experienced abdominal pain and lost 20 lbs. He found himself at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. He first underwent a mini-Whipple with Dr. Yeo, which unfortunately didn’t work. He eventually returned and had to have the full Whipple procedure.
Since getting sick, John has lost 110 lbs. The weight loss was a huge adjustment. John realized the true depth of how his life had changed forever when his weight change dictated he get rid of 5 closets worth of clothing.
Hailing from New York, this man who’s not even in his 50’s yet has found good in his situation.
He has adjusted to the routine of treatment, and has a keen eye for what can be done. “We’re dying to get in here.” He has noticed that not only are the infusion centers overbooked and nearly impossible to get an appointment, but the doctors are spread too thin. Another common issue is that there isn’t always information readily available about Pancreatic Cancer once you’ve been diagnosed.
“Age shouldn’t be a factor for this anymore.” John thinks that the old standards of who is at risk for Pancreatic Cancer are now outdated.
“I want more time out of life, I don’t think that’s too much to ask.”
Soft spoken but strong willed, John is sure to point out that he doesn’t like to feel sorry for himself, and he’d like to start volunteering for events soon.
“I have to give back the time I’ve earned.”

***********************
Sadly, John has lost his fight with Pancreatic Cancer. John had a sweet, straightforward, insightful nature; and it was an absolute honor to have heard his story and to have spent even a small amount of time with him.
Taryn and Eileen are grateful to have met you John. You will be missed.
Thank you so much.
A page is his memory has been set up on Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=115048701862556