Joining the Project Purple Podcast from Manchester, Connecticut, pancreatic cancer survivor Michelle Richards and her husband and caregiver Brian share a powerful story of resilience, faith, and facing the unknown together with host Dino Verrelli. Having already navigated cancer many times within their family, including their son’s battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma and multiple relatives affected, Michelle describes their diagnosis as “not our first rodeo,” yet one that brought entirely new challenges.
After months of persistent symptoms like abdominal pain, fatigue, and discomfort, Michelle shares that she and Brian struggled to find answers, often feeling as though they were “out in the desert” searching for clarity. It wasn’t until imaging in late 2024 revealed a tumor that their journey truly began, marked by conflicting diagnoses, emotional highs and lows, and the critical importance of trusting your instincts and advocating for your health. With support from family, including an oncologist niece, and second opinions from leading institutions, Michelle ultimately faced an aggressive pancreatic cancer diagnosis head-on.
Throughout treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, and a major surgery removing much of her pancreas and spleen, Michelle shares how she leaned into positivity, faith, and the belief that mindset plays a crucial role in healing. Brian offers an equally important perspective, reflecting on the caregiver experience and how life is forever changed after a diagnosis like this.
From finding meaning in small signs, like rainbows, and placing deep faith in God’s plan, to participating in and fundraising for Project Purple’s Double Mile just as she finished radiation, Michelle’s story is one of determination, community, and hope. Together, Michelle and Brian emphasize the importance of listening to your body, supporting both survivors and caregivers, and choosing strength in the face of uncertainty.
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