Update on My Journey with PNET
Assalamu Alaikum, everyone. I was diagnosed with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNET) on June 7th at age 42. I live in Bangkok with my wife and our 2-year-old son. This journey has been an emotional ride for all of us. At first, doctors thought I had pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and gave me less than a year. But Alhamdulillah, further tests showed it’s neuroendocrine tumors, and I might have 3-5 years. So far, I’ve completed two rounds of chemotherapy and two rounds of PRRT with Lutetium, a targeted nuclear therapy that works because my cancer cells have the right receptors. I also had radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to remove tumors from my pancreas, which went well removing the main tumors. All this happened in just a few months, so everything is moving fast. --- UPDATE Oct 10 I just got my latest tests. Most things are stable, but a couple of numbers went up, which might show some vascular concerns in my liver: Liver function: - ALP: increased from 126 to 176 (possible vascular issue) - ALT: stable and normal - AST: slight increase, mild liver stress - GGT: spike that may indicate vascular issue Cancer markers: - CA 19-9: much lower than baseline, still good - CEA: also better than baseline Scans: I had a Dotatate PET-CT to see how treatments are affecting tumors. The uptake by tumors is less this time, which is a good sign-it means tumors are weaker and fewer cancer cells remain. Thankfully, tumors haven’t spread beyond the pancreas and liver, so the treatment is working. What’s next: I will have a CT scan with contrast soon to check for any liver vascular issues. I’ll keep going with PRRT and somatostatin analogs until markers and scans stabilize. My doctor gave me the green light to start taking Creatine and try hyperbaric oxygen therapy for fatigue, sleep, and muscle recovery, so I’ll begin those soon. I asked about other therapies, but my oncologist advised sticking to proven treatments to avoid affecting current progress. For the next 8 weeks, I’m focusing on discipline to improve my nutrition, fitness, and overall wellness. --- I’ve been sharing every step-not just treatments but also the emotions, the victories, and the tough times. If you’re facing something like this, remember you’re not alone. I’ve started a channel to share my daily journey so others can learn and find support. Jazakum Allahu Khairan for your prayers and support.