‘Be your own advocate:’ Cancer survivor shares story on World Pancreatic Cancer Day

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. — Thursday, Nov. 18th is “World Pancreatic Cancer Day” as part of Pancreatic Awareness Month and is something that hits close to home for Chief Meteorologist Mike Buresh.

Mike’s mom was diagnosed with the deadliest cancer in the world in 2007.

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Mike chronicled his mother’s very graceful battle for the nine months she fought the disease in “A Very Personal Journey: My Mom’s Fight Against Terminal Cancer.”

In the years following his mom’s passing, Mike has become an ambassador of sorts while trying to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer. Twenty years ago, only 4% of all pancreatic cancer patients survived five years, increasing now to about 9%. Still very low, but at least somewhat encouraging.

Through Mike’s local work with PurpleStride, an annual fundraiser to increase awareness and treatment for pancreatic cancer, he met Becky and Bryan Gillan from Fleming Island.

Becky was diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas at just 40 years old.

After surviving a lengthy and potentially lethal surgery followed by chemotherapy, Becky is now thriving and just about to reach the 8-year survivor threshold.

“Accepting help and asking for it is a huge stress relief when you are going through an overwhelming medical situation like this,” Becky said.

Becky has not done it alone, but rather has heavily leaned on her husband and caregiver Bryan, as well as their three children and the rest of the family and friends — along with a very good dose of faith.

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“It seems like more than you can handle but take it just one step at a time,” said Bryan. “Set goals, write them down, check them off. You won’t be 100% accurate and will not do great at everything, but do the best you can.”

Their story is one of love, family, prayer, hope, patience, grace and commitment.

Both say it’s critical to persevere and equally important to accept all the help that is being offered during such a personal health crisis.

“Be your own advocate and do not just sit back,” Becky said. “If you know something is wrong, keep pushing forward until you figure it out.”

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