On 7/18 we were told by the doctor that we should research and find a second opinion on Gerry's "inoperable" pancreatic cancer. The doctor suggested that we go to a National Cancer Institute that specializes in pancreatic cancer. I am raising funds to help offset the costs of travel out of state, stay, and additional hospital expenses for my parents.

Gerry has been receiving medical services at the Reno VA hospital. While the medical team has been exceptional with their care and knowledge, it is time for us to seek a hospital that has specialists who are comfortable and confident taking on his complex case. There are no national cancer institutes in the state of Nevada. Only a few hospitals nationwide do the Appleby procedure which involves vascular resection that is needed. We have not given up hope!

Anyone who knows Gerry probably has a great story to tell about him. He is an outgoing social butterfly who loves to crack a sarcastic joke. He is the first person you call if something breaks in your house (or in my case, you want something changed). He is one of the most active people I know with a ton of hobbies - he enjoys mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, fishing, gokarting, windsurfing, and hiking (to name a few).

On 3/25 Gerry was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer of the body and tail. During that time, his CA 19-9 markers were over 1800 (average is 0-37). After completing 3 treatments of Flofirinox chemo combination, his markers were rechecked and down to 864.

Most recently, he has done 2 cycles for a total of 4 treatments of chemotherapy (he is scheduled to receive it every 2 weeks pending his bloodwork). He has been struggling to maintain appropriate white blood cell count as well as platelets requiring additional interventions and pushed back chemo dates. He has struggled to maintain weight as the chemo has been making him very sick.

Last week Gerry had a new CT scan. We were very excited and hopeful to see it after hearing his CA 19-9 had dropped more than 1000 points. The CT scan showed no reduction in tumor size and increased encasement of the nearby arteries and vessels. We were told that his tumor was inoperable due to do the involvement of arteries and vessels. All other organs look great and healthy! Hearing the word "inoperable" was completely devastating. With that being said, the doctor recommended getting a second opinion. Gerry will need major vascular resection and a procedure that is not commonly done.

Pancreatic cancer is considered relatively rare, only accounting for 3% of all cancers. Unfortunately it has a high mortality rate with a survival rate that has gone up to 13% over 5 years (on average). This is why it is SO important that Gerry is able to get help from a world renowned doctor and hospital that specializes in pancreatic cancer care. Please consider donating to help Gerry get the best care possible!

Thank you <3

Stephanie

(Gerry's daughter)