My fight against pancreatic cancer began in August 2019.  It was devastating to receive such a dreadful diagnosis, and to learn that the cancer had already metastasized to my liver, but I have been blessed to have had very successful treatments. Treatments began with chemo therapy and continued with immuno therapy through June 28, 2022. My scans have been clear, no visible evidence of metastatic cancer, for three years.

No one knows where this leads long term, but at the moment the outcome has been extraordinary!  I was fortunate that the cellular make up of my cancer made
it a good candidate for immuno treatment.  Many with pancreatic cancer do not have as clear an option with immuno treatment. 

My doctor is extremely pleased with the results and has relayed that he has started to use this regimen of immuno drugs on several other cancer patients, indicating positive results in many. He reminds me I was the first, which provides positive feelings to know it is helping others with various cancers.

Pancreatic cancer is so dangerous because it's symptoms often go undetected until it has reached advanced stages.  PanCAN.org is a pancreatic cancer advocacy organization that provides: counsel to patients and their families, education forums, treatment options to match patients' requirements, and funding of research. Throughout our journey they have been a constant source of counsel, particularly educating on the value of 'knowing your tumor' and understanding the role genetics plays in diagnosis and treatment. Knowing my tumor was critical to the path that immuno therapy could possibly work. Trials are beginning with combinations of chemo and immuno treatments. One day they may unlock other paths of very successful treatment. This is why continued investment in research, studies, and education is so important to continue to make these successful strides to defeat pancreatic and other cancers. Since its beginning in 1999, PanCAN has contributed over $235MM to research. 

Pancreatic cancer does not stop or slow down, and neither do we! We’re going to help make progress, with your support.

Our team is participating in PanCAN’s PurpleStride, a year-round national movement that funds lifechanging programs and services for pancreatic cancer patients and their families.

Every dollar you give means more patients can benefit from PanCAN’s free, one-on-one support, personalized information, service and resources that can make a real difference in their lives. 

Please join our team as a donor and make a gift of any size to get us one step closer to finding cures and improving more patients’ lives. 

Patients and families need us now more than ever.

Thank you for your support.

David and Karen McVicker