I am confident that John would give this endeavor his blessing.
Pancreatic cancer came into our lives very unexpectedly, as it does for so many. John was diagnosed in March 2021. After several years of borderline-high A1C, John’s numbers were suddenly off the charts; he had lost weight, and began requiring insulin. His doctor recommended tests, which led to additional testing, and an appointment with an oncologist who confirmed the primary doctor’s initial diagnosis. The news devastated us.
At the time of John’s diagnosis the cancer had already spread to his liver and other organs, so the oncologist recommended palliative chemotherapy. From the moment of his diagnosis, John had a great attitude. We promised each other we would “stay in the moment” and find good things in every day we had together—and we did.
John initially responded well to chemo. Throughout his treatments, he never complained; he kept in touch with many friends and family, and he continued playing golf (which he so loved!) even when it took all of his energy. In total, John accepted palliative chemotherapy for 7 months—including participation in a clinical trial.
We had made plans for a trip to Hawaii prior to John’s diagnosis. Hawaii was our special place; we had been there many times over the last 20 years. During John’s treatments, he continually said that the trip to Hawaii was giving him hope . . . and he wouldn’t think about cancelling it.
So at the end of October, a few weeks after he stopped chemo treatments and moved into home hospice care, he rallied—and we went to Hawaii for 2 weeks. With John’s decreasing strength, it was a difficult and bittersweet trip—and it was incredible just to be there together. We watched the ocean from our balcony, went for "wheelchair" walks during the day, and listened to the waves at night.
After returning home from Hawaii John declined quickly, dying peacefully the morning of Monday, November 22.
By donating to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in honor of John, you will help fund research for earlier diagnosis, enhanced treatment options, and hopefully—one day soon—a cure.
It is John’s own words about participating in the clinical trial that I hope will inspire you to support these fundraising efforts.
“Even if it can’t help me,
it might help someone else who comes after me”.
My goal and profound wish is that no one has to go through the suffering and pain John went through—and that no loved ones have to endure the pain I feel now.
Printable donation form - print and mail.
