My Health Journey

June 15, 2026

When I started this blog, my plan was simple: share tips and experiences about staying healthy, active, and happy as we get older. Life, however, had a different idea.

In January 2026, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 pancreatic cancer.

Needless to say, that wasn't on my list of goals for the year.

An Unexpected Answer

The diagnosis came after several weeks of feeling increasingly unwell. What started as a few symptoms quickly turned into a trip to the emergency room, a series of tests, and an unexpected answer. The good news was that the cancer was found in the head of the pancreas and had not spread elsewhere.

The journey wasn't exactly smooth after that. Following a procedure to address a blockage, I experienced a severe bout of pancreatitis that landed me in a difficult recovery. I lost about 40 pounds, was diagnosed with diabetes, and suddenly found myself dealing with challenges I had never expected.

For someone who enjoys staying active, working out, walking, and riding a bike, it was frustrating to go from doing almost anything I wanted to feeling like I couldn't do much at all.

Beginning Treatment

After meeting with the outstanding team at Moffitt Cancer Center, we developed a treatment plan. The original goal was surgery first, followed by chemotherapy, but due to inflammation, the order changed. Instead, I began a 12-round chemotherapy treatment plan in February.

If you've never been through chemotherapy, I'll summarize it this way: some days are definitely better than others. My treatments are every other Monday. The middle of the week is usually when I feel the effects the most, but by the weekend and into the following week, I'm able to get back to many of the things I enjoy.

Still Moving Forward

For a while, I wasn't nearly as active as I should have been. Eventually, I decided that while cancer may be part of my story, it wasn't going to become my entire identity. I renewed my gym membership, started walking more, and got back on my bike.

The difference has been incredible.

Exercise hasn't just helped me physically; it has helped me mentally and emotionally as well. Every workout, every walk, and every bike ride reminds me that I'm still moving forward.

What This Blog Will Be

This blog won't become a cancer journal. My goal is still the same as when I started: sharing experiences, lessons learned, and ideas that help us live healthier and more fulfilling lives. My current journey just happens to provide a few extra lessons along the way.

I'll share more in future posts, including what I've learned about staying active during treatment, adjusting to diabetes, and maintaining a positive mindset when life throws a curveball.

Until next time, keep moving, keep smiling, and find a reason to enjoy each day.