I haven't been around in a while but I need lots of prayer!

Prayers being said for you and your family.
I know this is something commonly said and seems trite, but really you can only face one problem, one day at a time. You don't need to figure everything out now. Do as your dr. Said and just go to your appointment before you make any big decisions. Every time one of these worrying thoughts come, pray and give it to your creator.

Donna, I'm so sorry you're going through this! Prayers for healing, and (((Donna))) hugs! Come here anytime you need to chat!

I am so sorry you are going through this.

Whipple is major surgery as you already know. Try and use a doctor that performs it frequently at a teaching hospital, even if you need to travel.

Will keep you and your family in my prayers. HUGS

The same is coming from me!

I don't have any advice to add as I live in Canada where healthcare is covered by our taxes and insurance ... I'm sorry that you have to worry about that   

Many years ago (20+) my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She had a grapefruit sized tumor. Her surgery was a modified Whipple (sorry, not sure exactly how it was modified). After her surgery, we found out her tumor was benign! She recovered fully and is in great health. Please don't give up hope.

I'm sorry you have to deal with this. I'll be sending you good thoughts.

I have missed you! What a pickle you are in right now. And your brain is doing the Mom thing and worrying about everyone but yourself. So take a few deep breaths and consider this. You have a practical husband and you raised amazing sons who can now be part of the support system you need. Allow them the privilege of taking care of you for this go round. Your brother can speak with your mother when he feels the time is right. As for your job, I know it is hard, but making the decisions about your position is above your pay grade. Admin. makes the big bucks to figure out those things. As a retired teacher I do know that teaching co-workers have the biggest hearts in this world and you are sure to be surrounded by caring friends.

Do not worry about money. Health insurance is there for a reason. You will have sick days and short term disability if needed. If you decide to take medical leave you will be compensated. I'm sure that is part of your contract.

Most importantly take good care of yourself. Allow others to show you how much they care. You are surrounded by those who love you and they will need to care for you as much as you will need them to do it. Think of the times you yourself have jumped in to help someone going through a difficult time. You didn't hesitate because it was how you showed you cared.

The Peas are always here to listen and give advise and commiserate. Take this a moment at a time if you have to but know that you are soon going to be a member of a growing group of strong, powerful women who kicked cancer to the curb!

I'm so sorry you're having to face this. I'll keep you in my prayers. 

I dont really have any advice. When I was diagnosed with cancer the one thing I just couldn't deal with was telling my Dad. He lost my Mom the previous year and had his own bout cancer that same year. Every time I thought about telling him the tears would start and I couldn't stop them. My sister did it for me. I'd suggest you let your brother tell your Mom. 

I'm so sorry to read this post, but it's always good too see the kindness and good advice coming in from the Peas.

Does your school have a sick leave bank? I know some teachers who were donated over a year of sick days in order to help them during cancer.

I have a friend of a friend who had pancreatic cancer last year. He did surgery and treatments at Emory, and he's now in some clinical trials elsewhere, but doing well.

My only other thoughts are to get a good surgical/oncological plan in place and spend as much time walking while you're thinking as possible. Build both physical and spiritual strength.

Prayers for you & your family as you travel this scary path.

((HUGS)) and prayers

I am sorry you are dealing with this. I recommend completing your FMLA paperwork with your district. They can start the search for a retired teacher or someone else capable of keeping your students on track. I am married to an educator and understand and appreciate your concern for your students. Start making your resource lists and if a sub can be lined up, start working with him/her ASAP.

Donnnaaa !!!!    My sweet wittle nurse Sophie wants me to tell you she and her brother are 
praying or you, sending ((( hugs )))), AND---she said "I WISH I could be Donna's nurse...even though she'll be going through a rough time; I know I could make her smile AND giggle with my silly bulldog antics!!!"     

I am so sorry. My thoughts and best wishes are with you.

donna - first I'm glad you've come back here.  I will be sending up P&PT for you.

second - I'm sorry you are going through this. I know first hand how terrifying it is because my mom was just diagnosed last week with pancreatic cancer stage IV, also on the head of it. I went with her and my dad to the biopsy and the results appointment. I will be going with them to visit the surgical team and a consultation on Tuesday for the Whipple procedure. We are lucky we live close to the Bay Area and have access to a top-rated pancreatic specialist team.

I'm glad you're telling your children, because I'm glad I knew from the get-go. I have prepared myself for the worst, but I'm also hoping and praying for the best. My step MIL, did not tell anyone (including my FIL) until the end and it was awful.


ETA - thank you to the peas who indicated successful Whipple procedures.  My boss knows of a 19 year and a 5 year Whipple survivors.  We are hopeful and so far at peace with it.