Joining the Project Purple Podcast from right outside Ann Arbor, MI, pancreatic cancer survivor Nora Plank gives an emotional story of her diagnosis, treatment, and life after pancreatic cancer.
Nora’s journey began with a middle-of-the-night trip to the emergency room for hernia surgery, where a CT unexpectedly revealed a spot on her pancreas. With the advantage of a “lottery ticket” early diagnosis, Nora wastes no time advocating for herself, a trait she stresses the importance of. By doing research and reaching out, she discovers Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MI, where she undergoes surgery to remove half her pancreas.
Nora also sheds light on some of the lesser-discussed challenges of pancreatic cancer, such as trying to maintain normalcy during treatment and the pressures of being labeled as someone with cancer. For others facing similar emotions, she recommends seeing an oncology psychologist, emphasizing the value of having somebody outside of friends and family to talk to.
Today, Nora has turned her experience into motivation to make every minute count and give back through volunteering. She also prioritizes staying active and connected, recommending the YMCA’s LIVESTRONG program, a 12-week small-group fitness and wellness program designed to support adult cancer survivors. For anybody still fighting, she reminds them not to give up, to take everything one step at a time, and never to be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.
Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community: https://www.youtube.com/@project_purple
