Just Diagnosed?
We’re here to help.
A pancreatic cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming.
You may have more questions than answers right now — that’s completely normal. This page is here to help you take the first steps, understand what comes next, and find the right support as you begin this journey.
Take a Deep Breath
It’s okay to pause before you act.
Before making any decisions, take a moment to process what’s happened. You don’t need to figure out everything today.
Understanding your diagnosis and options will take time — and there are professionals and organizations ready to guide you through each step.
Helpful Tip:
Write down questions as they come up.
Bring them to your next doctor’s appointment.
Learn the Basics
Pancreatic cancer affects everyone differently. Learning a few key terms can help you feel more confident in conversations with your care team.
You’ll want to know:
Type of pancreatic cancer (e.g., adenocarcinoma, neuroendocrine tumor)
Stage of the disease (how far it has spread)
Treatment options (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy)
What to Expect After a Diagnosis
What may be happening
Receiving test results and confirmation of diagnosis
Initial meetings with your healthcare team
Feeling overwhelmed, scared, numb, or unsure what to ask
These reactions are common. Many people describe this week as a blur.
Helpful steps
Write down questions as they come up — even short or unfinished ones
Bring a support person to appointments if possible
Ask for copies of your test results and reports
Connect with our support team for guidance, clarification, and resources
Helpful Reminder:
You do not need to understand everything right away.
Week 1: Processing & First Steps
What may be happening
• Receiving test results and confirmation of diagnosis
• Initial meetings with your healthcare team
• Feeling overwhelmed, scared, numb, or unsure what to ask
These reactions are common. Many people describe this week as a blur.
Helpful steps:
• Write down questions as they come up — even short or unfinished ones
• Bring a support person to appointments if possible
• Ask for copies of your test results and reports
• Connect with our support team for guidance, clarification, and resources
Helpful Reminder:
You do not need to understand everything right away.
Week 2: Learning More About Your Cancer
What may be happening
• Additional imaging or diagnostic tests
• Learning the stage and type of pancreatic cancer
• Referrals to specialists such as oncology, surgery, or nutrition
• Information may feel more specific now, but also more complex.
Helpful steps:
• Ask about treatment options and overall goals of care
• Discuss whether a second opinion would be helpful
• Ask about symptom management and nutrition support
• Begin exploring emotional and peer support options
Helpful Reminder:
Asking for clarification does not slow things down — it helps you participate in decisions.
Weeks 3–4: Treatment Planning
What may be happening
• Treatment recommendations are made
• Discussions about chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, or clinical trials
• Possible port placement or preparation procedures
• Appointments may feel frequent or intense
This phase often includes decision-making and logistics.
Helpful steps:
• Ask about timelines and what to expect from treatment
• Review potential side effects and what supports are available
• Ask if palliative care is appropriate
(Palliative care focuses on symptom relief and quality of life and can be part of care at any stage)
• Talk with your care team about work, finances, and practical supports
Helpful Reminder:
Supportive care is part of treatment — not something to wait for.
Month 2–3: Starting or Continuing Treatment
What may be happening
• Beginning treatment or continuing cycles
• Managing side effects and symptoms
• Adjusting to a “new normal”
• Energy levels, emotions, and routines may change during this time.
Helpful steps:
• Report symptoms early — support is available
• Ask about nutrition, pain, fatigue, and symptom management
• Stay connected with your support network
• Revisit questions as they arise — it’s okay to ask again
Helpful Reminder:
Adjustments are expected. Care plans often evolve.
Ongoing: Support, Reassessment & Advocacy
What to expect
• Follow-up scans and appointments
• Adjustments to treatment plans
• Emotional ups and downs for patients and caregivers
Care is not static — it changes with your needs.
Helpful steps
• Continue to ask about supportive and palliative care options
• Seek caregiver support if you are supporting a loved one
• Explore advocacy, education, or peer support opportunities
Helpful Reminder:
You do not have to navigate this alone.
How We Can Help
If you’re unsure what questions to ask, need help understanding test results, or want support navigating next steps, our team is here.
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