Wonderful friends and family, please join us in showing our support for Madeline Dames as she fights to overcome pancreatic cancer. For those not already aware, here is a summary of her journey and the road ahead in her own words:

“After much ado through the Summer and Fall, I was officially diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on 12/21/22 by the Center for Advanced Medicine at BJC. Admittance into the Siteman Cancer Center began the following day and within the week I’d been seen by both an oncologist and surgeon. During these visits, I learned that the tumor on my pancreas had grown twice its size since I first entered St. Mary's in August 2022.

The good news is that I am within the 20% of pancreas cancer patients who qualify for surgery. On January 9th of this year, I began twice-monthly aggressive chemotherapy treatments with the goal of shrinking the tumor. Provided everything goes as planned this should take about four months. At that point, I will have the “Whipple” procedure, which has a long recovery in conjunction with two additional months of chemo.

I am currently sidelined from the ‘real world’ while navigating my ‘new normal’. I know too many Cancer Warriors to do anything but move forward and win this marathon. Just writing these words still feels very surreal. It’s been a wild ride. I am grateful to have such an amazing care team, dedicated family, and friends and to know there will be light at the end of this tunnel.

With love and gratitude-

Madeline”

So many loved ones have asked how they can help. Right now, finances are the greatest need. During treatment, surgery, and recovery Madeline's income will be almost non-existent. This presents an incredible financial strain as she travels an already difficult road. We want to alleviate that stress and pressure, to afford her the resources and time to recover fully and peacefully. Your donations will help pay for medical expenses not covered by insurance and will provide peace of mind while she "kick’s this cancer’s ass."

Stay tuned for updates about her continued progress and thank you so much for your support!