Julie, We Are By Your Side

Julie Rouchere was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in March 2015. Her care team in France was initially hopeful as she was diagnosed while Stage One. She completed two rounds of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Her cancer markers continued to climb but her primary tumor was unchanged in size. After a brief period of stabilization Julie became a candidate for the Whipple Procedure, which is an option for 20% of those with Pancreatic Cancer. This is an aggressive, complicated surgery. Unfortunately, during a post-op checkup it was discovered that there had been no improvement; worse, that Julie's cancer markers were higher than when diagnosed and that she had new tumors. Due to increasingly failing health, Julie was no longer a candidate for chemotherapy. Her Doctors felt they had exhausted treatment options and recommended researching Clinical Trials in Cancer Treatment. An extensive search led her to such a program at St. Luke's Hospital in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and in July she traveled from France to PA to begin the trial. She receives 144-hours of continuous infusions of the drug, BPM 31510. This is an unproven protocol, however it is the only available option to attempt to stop progression of this very aggressive cancer.

It is a cruel trick of fate that those that are in the poorest health are likely to not only have to fight the battle for health, but will also have to simultaneously battle to manage a financial situation that becomes ever more precarious with expensive medical treatments and loss of income. The year-long trial only covers the cost of the infusion. Even with this important opportunity to find a path for a cure, Julie has many out-of-pocket expenses--housing, food and transportation, which have wiped out her financial security. Julie needs help now. We are hoping that those that love and have been touched by having Julie in their lives are able to contribute to a fund which will help to alleviate financial stress and allow Julie keep her health as her primary focus as she fights this battle for her life.

Our hearts thank you.

Most sincerely,
Meghan