AI Image
Woman survives pancreatic cancer after routine heart scan catches early sign: "I feel so lucky"
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- Vicky Titcomb, a 72-year-old bookstore owner, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after a routine heart scan revealed an abnormality on her pancreas, despite feeling healthy initially.
- Pancreatic cancer is highly deadly with a 5-year survival rate of 13%, but early detection allowed Titcomb to undergo an aggressive treatment plan including chemotherapy, radiation, and a complex Whipple surgery.
- Alongside pancreatic cancer, Titcomb was also treated for stage 1 breast cancer and a benign ovarian mass, managing multiple treatments over several months with the support of specialists at Mass General Brigham.
- After successful surgery and additional chemotherapy, Titcomb was declared cancer-free in March 2026 and is now focusing on recovery, family, and raising awareness for pancreatic cancer treatment advancements.
- Titcomb credits her positive outcome to early diagnosis and medical progress, emphasizing the importance of hope and ongoing research in improving survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients.
