He’s only 108 pounds. Any advice or tips for him and how to best stay on top of side effects? Which days are the worst/which days are better?
Got him an iPad, headphones, heated blanket, and mitts and socks for cold therapy. Will he want to eat anything?
My dad (70) was diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma last week. His tumor is 2.8cm and in the uncinate process, not touching any other organs or blood vessels. He has had 2 CT scans (1 for abdomen and pelvis, one for chest), EUS, and is now scheduled for a diagnostic laparoscopy this week for staging and will also get a Mediport put in at the same time for chemo. Our doctors do not see any value in doing a PET scan at this time. All other bloodwork (CMP, CBC) has come back within normal range.
He’s considered borderline resectable due to location of tumor and because of his CA19-9 levels. Although they don’t see any metastatic disease, his CA19-9 was 1,200 two weeks ago and had a repeat today and it’s sitting at 1,400+. His doctors would like to start him on modified Folfirinox before considering a Whipple. They would like to start him on chemo in 2 weeks.
He’s generally in good physical shape, works out, plays pickleball, but he’s only 108 pounds. We are very worried about his weight. He does have other health issues - he has heart disease (has a few stents) and type II diabetes.
1.) Any tips for combatting side effects of modified Folfirinox? He is very nervous and scared of chemo.
2.) Are there any other scans or tests I should ask our doctors?
3.) We were very encouraged by his scans but his CA19-9 elevated like this, and continuing to increase is very concerning. What is the likelihood that this has already spread and progressed much more than what the scans show?
4.) Please offer any advice whether it’s advocating for certain tests, treatments, the best way I can be there for my dad, or literally anything. He’s my whole word and I’m scared.