Hi everyone,

I am not one to usually post personal stuff, just the usual girls night out, etc. So hear goes.. I had been having some abdominal issues for a few weeks, I got in to see my primary care on February 14th. She sent me for a CT scan, two hours later I was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer. Per our discussion I went to the ED where I work and was admitted for the pain. The next day an MRI was done, this showed the cancer has already metastasized to my lower lumbar region. They kept me to do a paracentesis and went ahead and implanted a port so I will be able to fight this when they get the cytology back. I have a PET scan scheduled, a consult with a surgeon for a second opinion as I was told it is inoperable. Now for the part that scares me worse then the cancer....because I had just recently started with my employer I am not eligible for FMLA. HR said I can take 60 days of unpaid leave and pay my insurance premiums while off, then i will be unemployed and offered cobra coverage...I had a phone interview with Social Security to apply for disability. But since i worked full time up until the 14th I will not qualify until I am not working or working just part time making under 1620. a month, with a five month approval time. And drum roll......medicare is a two year wait after approval unless I turn 65 before then. Seriously? Pancreatic cancer has a life expectancy of six to nine months after diagnosis. I am facing the fight of my life to live, treatments, clinical trials, I will try anything to beat this but without medical insurance I will have lost before even getting started...just the cost alone for coverage, expenses getting to the Dr appointments, etc. I am asking my family and friends for any help if you can, especially prayers and encouraging words...