Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Goodbye to a Legend -- Hope for the Future

By now I'm sure everyone has heard about the passing of Patrick Swayze.  I can't even begin to imagine the struggles he went through, the pain he and his family endured.  At least -- maybe now -- the family can begin to find peace.


I don't hear about pancreatic cancer very often.  I knew that Swayze had it, and it was mentioned on an episode of House last night.  But I had no idea how horrific it is -- the statistics for those with pancreatic cancer are mind-numbing.  Only 13% live for a year after diagnosis, and only 3% survive for five years.  Wow. 


But it sounds like there's hope.  I ran across an article this morning about a new advance form of radiotherapy that can actually target the tumor, meaning higher doses of radiation can be used without damaging surrounding tissue.  You can read more about it here -- it's actually quite an interesting article. 

And a little hope can be a big thing.

5 comments:

o2bhiking said...

It is a horrible disease. I know a young woman whos husband died of it 4 years after they married, and I know a guy whos 38 year old brother died of it. One more reminder of how much is left to do.

Katie said...

38? So young! :(

Marci said...

Pancreatic cancer has a very low survival rate, less than 2%, people like you are making a difference though. RIP Patrick.

chris mcpeake said...

one of the worst of the big Cs

Kenley said...

I was unaware of his death for about a week or so after it occurred, but I was shocked. I guess when its your time, its your time. Well, just wanted to say I enjoy your other articles. Great blog!

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