Being told you have pancreatic cancer can feel overwhelming. You may have many questions, emotions, and uncertainties all at once. Please know—you are not alone. Sky Foundation was built to provide compassion, reliable information, and a community that understands what you’re going through.
Pancreatic cancer begins in the pancreas, a small but powerful organ located behind the stomach. The pancreas helps with digestion and regulates blood sugar. When abnormal cells grow and multiply there, they can form a tumor. The type and location of this tumor—and whether it has spread—determine your treatment options and next steps.
The Basics of Pancreatic Cancer
- Types: The most common type is called pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which develops in the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas. Other, less common types include neuroendocrine tumors.
- Stages: Like many cancers, pancreatic cancer is described in “stages” that reflect whether the cancer is confined to the pancreas, has spread nearby, or has traveled to other areas of the body.
- Symptoms: Some people notice jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, or digestive issues. Others are diagnosed after routine scans or lab tests.
Why Specialized Care Matters
Pancreatic cancer is complex, but outcomes improve when patients are treated at high-volume centers with experienced specialists. We are proud to have connections with Henry Ford Health and some of the best pancreatic cancer surgeons in the country. Through these partnerships, you have access to expert opinions, advanced imaging, genetic testing, and surgical options such as the Whipple procedure that are not always available at smaller hospitals.
Hope Through Research
Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Alongside standard approaches like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, clinical trials are constantly testing new therapies that may provide better results. Sky Foundation helps connect patients to these opportunities so you can explore every possible option.
Moving Forward Together
Your diagnosis is just the beginning of your journey—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Sky Foundation is here to:
- Answer questions in plain language.
- Connect you with world-class doctors, surgeons, and hospitals.
- Provide information about clinical trials and research advances.
- Offer emotional and community support from survivors and caregivers who understand.
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