How Owen’s Fight Began

On March 22, 2007, Owen was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer with metastasis to the liver at Nash General Hospital in Rocky Mount. This diagnosis resulted from a routine blood test that showed elevated liver functions, an ultrasound that showed abnormalities on the pancreas and liver, and a CT scan that indicated Stage IV pancreatic cancer. Dr. Seaman, general surgeon painted a very grim picture of 6-12 months for survival rate.

They then sought a second opinion with Dr. Theodore Pappas at Duke University Medical Center.  After reviewing the CT films, he was in agreement that the areas on the pancreas and liver were suspicious for carcinoma. Owen was referred to Dr. Sharon Taylor, hematologist/oncologist at Duke/Raleigh Hospital. After two weeks of biopsies and a variety of tests, Dr. Taylor informed us that the results were positive for cancer in the pancreas and that the liver biopsy was also positive for cancer.  She recommended chemotherapy, which was started on April 20.

On June 1, Owen completed 7 weeks of chemo. A CT scan after the last round showed no significant growth of the lesion on the pancreas, but did show one additional lesion on the liver.

In the meantime, Owen and Berrie went to NYC for appointments with Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez to explore his alternative protocol for pancreatic cancer. A metabolic evaluation was conducted to determine which vitamin/mineral/herbal supplements would be prescribed. Dr. Gonzalez developed a regimen specific to Owen, which included 191 supplements and pancreatic enzymes a day, regular detoxification routines, and an organic, vegetarian diet—and LOTS of fresh carrot juice!

            During the month of June and the first part of July, Owen and Berrie began preparations that were necessary to go on the Gonzalez Regimen. This involved a great deal of organizing and planning for compliance with this incredibly strenuous treatment regimen.

On July 1, a CT scan showed “subjective enlargement” of the lesion on pancreas, and increase in size of 2 of the lesions on the liver.

On July 11, Owen began the Gonzalez Regimen. It is taking quite a lot of energy, time and adjustment in his lifestyle, as well as Berrie’s, and his children’s---but he is willing to do anything to fight the statistics and become one of the survivors on this very difficult journey. Other than being a rigorous regimen, it is just about the healthiest lifestyle anyone could have!