Pancreatic Cancer Survivor Funds Clinical Trial to Aid Future Patients
When Linda Sherman was diagnosed with stage three pancreatic cancer in 2021, she placed her trust in the Mass General Cancer Center team. Enrolled in a novel clinical trial for localized pancreatic cancer, Linda underwent a treatment regimen that aimed to combat as much of the cancer as possible before surgery. By October 2022, she completed her treatment and has been living cancer-free since.
Linda's treatment involved a multidisciplinary team including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses, among others. She credits her recovery to the exceptional care provided by Drs. David Ryan, Ted Hong, and Carlos Fernandez-del Castillo, along with the support from her infusion nurse, Kristin Copenheaver-Smith, RN, and Melissa Woolwine, NP.
After her successful treatment, Linda and her husband sought to express their gratitude and support for the clinical trial that played a crucial role in her recovery. They made a philanthropic gift to fund the trial for an additional three years, ensuring that the research and analysis of the trial's results could continue. This gesture not only serves as a thank you to her care team but also as a beacon of hope for future patients facing a similar diagnosis.
Dr. Hong emphasized the importance of the trial, stating, "The research we’re doing in this area is extremely promising." Linda's story is a testament to the impact of high-quality, compassionate care and the difference it can make in the lives of patients battling cancer.