“Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation was instrumental in helping my family navigate this difficult journey.”
“Rolfe Foundation was there for me, and I want to be able to continue to support it so it’s there for everyone else.”
“My dad never wanted to make his battle with pancreatic cancer about himself. He believed in the power of sharing stories, and was all about helping others. Giving back is our family’s way to honor him and keep his legacy alive.”
“I lost my mom 12 years ago to pancreatic cancer. She was, in otherwise, perfect health. As president of Rolfe Foundation, I am fighting for her, and I am fighting for our future generations.”
Prior to appointments with your physicians, be sure to organize your thoughts and questions and bring this list with you. During your appointment, start with your most pressing concerns. We also highly recommend bringing a family member or friend with you as another set of ears, and to take notes and chime in with questions.
It’s important to understand your medical options and the courses of treatment you are undertaking. Remember, you have every right to ask your physicians whatever questions you may have on your mind—as many times as you need. If at any point you aren’t understanding the information being presented to you, you can always slow things down, and request explanations. It’s OK, and encouraged, to advocate for yourself, and have your caretakers advocate on your behalf.
Here’s a list of sample questions from Heather Sentkoski, a clinical social worker at Johns Hopkins, to use as a guideline:
If you are meeting with a surgeon or oncologist for the first time, do not be afraid to ask:
Important questions to ask your doctor:
Do not forget to ask about other things that may be important to you:
Finally—and most importantly—ask these questions of YOURSELF:
If you are uncomfortable with the results of some of these questions, you may want to re-evaluate your choice of physician or get a second opinion.
Seeking a second opinion for a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and subsequent treatments is commonplace, and is a practice most doctors encourage. Since different physicians may recommend different courses of treatment, second opinions can provide you with comprehensive options regarding your healthcare, and enable you to choose the plan that is right for you and your family. We can review your options with you, and connect you directly with the doctors and care providers who can provide additional insights on your diagnosis and treatment.