Published:
December 9, 2022
Jeff Eberts’ pancreatic cancer diagnosis did not take the typical route. In fact, he says if it weren’t for the keen perception and clinical curiosity of his gastroenterologist, his cancer could have progressed further and delayed the lifesaving care he received at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute.
Early Symptoms and Diagnosis
It was the summer of 2021 when Jeff began to experience frequent upper stomach pain. Over the next several months, he had a series of exams and tests with his primary care physician, cardiologist, and finally a pulmonologist, who discovered that Jeff’s left lung was filled with fluid. A CT scan revealed an irregularity with his pancreas that was causing pancreatic fluid to back up in his lungs, rather than flow into his intestines. A surgical procedure was needed to correct the issue.
In the process of placing a stent to redirect the fluid, Jeff’s gastroenterologist, Dr. David Horwhat, felt compelled to biopsy two areas of his pancreas. His intuition proved to be lifesaving. The biopsies revealed cancer in both areas of his pancreas.
The Search for Treatment
Jeff and his wife Sandy immediately began to seek opinions on the best treatment from what Jeff describes as “three world-class cancer centers.” They chose the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, very confident in the plan that was developed by hematologist-medical oncologist Dr. Nandi Reddy and team. They were equally impressed with the compassion, empathy and support they were receiving from the staff. Jeff says nurse navigator Marianne Gault became part of their family, breaking down barriers and instilling confidence every step of the way.
Jeff began his treatment with chemotherapy in the hope of shrinking his tumors, meeting regularly in Lancaster with Penn Medicine, Philadelphia endocrine and oncology surgeon Dr. Robert Roses who would later perform surgery to remove his pancreas.
The Best of Both Worlds
Jeff says his experience proved to be the best of both worlds.
“We didn’t have to go to multiple places,” he says. “We could get tremendous local care with the backing and skill level of a great research hospital.”
“I consider myself extremely fortunate,” he adds. “It appears like the cancer is beaten back…and we have life.”