Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Karyn Wolschleger at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror. She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Well being’s Spectrum Well being Most cancers Middle, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers. “It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
A CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas. “That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.” (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD, carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival. She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by. She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers. Two of her youngsters have gotten married. And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.” The household celebrated her tenth anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter. “We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned. (Taylor Ballek | Corewell Well being Beat)
Karyn Wolschleger lives for journey.
As she jets to Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland and New Zealand, she makes life at 64 look good.
To not say there isn’t loads of time at residence, too—a lot of it spent together with her grandkids. However she at all times has a brand new journey on the horizon as quickly because the final one is in her rear-view mirror.
It’s greater than wanderlust propelling Karyn.
She has a profound sense of gratitude for all of the world provides—particularly since she obtained a second likelihood at life 10 years in the past.
At 54, Karyn started a grueling, unplanned journey—she confronted pancreatic most cancers.
Defeating it required a protracted course of remedies at Corewell Health’s Spectrum Health Cancer Center, together with chemotherapy, radiation remedy and surgical procedure.
And for Karyn, it additionally required immense dedication, fortitude, a large community of help and a medical crew she might belief.
And hope. She clung to the hope that she would outlast the most cancers and discover extra days to treasure together with her family members.
“Now that I look again, I understand I’ve been given a complete new lease on life,” Karyn mentioned. “I’m not going to waste a single minute of it.”
Seeing Karyn embrace life brings pleasure to her Corewell Well being surgical oncologist, Mathew Chung, MD.
“That’s superior,” he mentioned. “That’s the reason we do what we do—to have an final result like this.”
As a 10-year survivor, Karyn shares a message of hope for others dealing with pancreatic most cancers.
“It’s not a dying sentence,” she mentioned. “You will get via it.”
A tumor detected
A decade in the past, in her mid-50s, Karyn felt on the cusp of recent freedoms and milestones.
The youngest of her 4 youngsters, her twin sons, had been in school.
She appeared ahead to having extra time for journey and rest together with her husband. She hoped sooner or later for grandchildren.
After which a CT scan revealed a golf ball-sized tumor on her pancreas.
“That was a darkish second,” she mentioned. “That was onerous, actually onerous.”
She didn’t know a lot about pancreatic most cancers, however what she knew was not good.
“It doesn’t have one of the best repute,” she mentioned.
Her husband, Kevin Wolschleger, MD, a Corewell Well being heart specialist, cautioned her to keep away from web searches on the subject.
The articles typically are primarily based on research and sufferers from previous years. They don’t essentially replicate present medical information or the remedies she would obtain.
Karyn had a good friend whose uncle lived 20 years after his prognosis. That gave her motive to hope she could possibly be a survivor, too.
Nonetheless, she confronted a battle.
Even at present, the 10-year survival fee for pancreatic most cancers is “within the 10% vary,” Dr. Chung mentioned.
A brand new therapy
One consider Karyn’s survival was an method to therapy that was thought of cutting-edge a decade in the past. Earlier than present process surgical procedure, she went via chemotherapy and radiation remedies to shrink the tumor.
“A number of the larger (most cancers therapy packages) had been simply starting to do it,” Dr. Chung mentioned. “That has grow to be extra of the norm now.”
Dr. Chung carried out the surgical procedure on Feb. 26, 2013. Together with the tumor, he eliminated Karyn’s pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, a part of her bile duct, a part of her abdomen and the primary part of her small gut.
With out her pancreas, she instantly developed Sort 1 diabetes and realized to adapt to insulin pictures and blood sugar checks. However that isn’t what stands out most for Karyn.
“That’s once I say I used to be cancer-free,” she mentioned. “That’s what I name my anniversary date.”
By means of the remedies and restoration from surgical procedure, Karyn relied on her husband, youngsters and associates.
“It’s vital that you’ve a help system,” she mentioned. “You want any person to be right here, somebody you may lean on.”
A recurrence
As she recovered, Karyn continued to test in together with her medical doctors. At first, she underwent a CT scan each three months. Regularly, the scans turned additional and additional aside.
About 5 years in the past, the scan detected most cancers in her lung—it had unfold from her pancreatic most cancers.
She underwent a CyberKnife therapy, which makes use of radiation to focus on and destroy the most cancers.
“I nonetheless do a CT scan each two to 3 years,” Karyn mentioned. “Generally I’ve to place it at the back of my thoughts and say I’m going to dwell my life and never fear about it.”
Making household reminiscences
The previous 10 years have been stuffed with moments that make Karyn grateful for her survival.
She has helped look after her mother and father, who dwell close by.
She has witnessed her twin sons graduate from school and launch careers.
Two of her youngsters have gotten married.
And she or he has welcomed 4 grandchildren.
“They’re so treasured, and so they imply a lot,” she mentioned. “Once I was identified, I by no means thought I’d get to see grandchildren.”
The household celebrated her 10th anniversary as a survivor with a visit to St. Maarten this winter.
“We’re making all these household reminiscences,” she mentioned.
Through the years, associates have requested her to talk with others who face pancreatic most cancers. And she or he has been glad to share her expertise.
“With pancreatic most cancers, there’s hope,” she mentioned. “You will get previous it. I believe it’s vital for individuals to grasp that.
“Simply belief the medical doctors. And when you’ve got questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”
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