When Joe first experienced mild discomfort in his upper abdomen and back in late 2024, he assumed it was nothing serious, perhaps a pulled muscle or a temporary stomach illness. Initial testing with his primary care physician found nothing concerning. 

A short time later, however, he became increasingly ill with flu-like symptoms and underwent a CT scan that revealed a mass near his stomach. Further testing initially suggested gastric cancer. An exploratory abdominal surgery confirmed cancer had spread, and before the end of the year, he began chemotherapy treatment at Minnesota Oncology. 

Just two months into treatment, additional evaluation revealed that pancreatic cancer was the primary cancer, while the cancer affecting his stomach was secondary disease that had spread from the pancreas. 

Fortunately, his treatment was already working. "The cancer was responding well to chemotherapy," Joe said.  

When the diagnosis was clarified, his care team adjusted his treatment regimen. Joe went on to complete 14 rounds of treatment under the care of Dr. Eric Lander. Early in their conversations, Dr. Lander discussed the clinical trial options that might become available to him in the future. 

Exploring New Treatment Possibilities 

By 2025, clinical trials became an increasingly important part of his treatment discussions. 

Dr. Lander presented him with a clinical trial that would allow him to receive radiation therapy along with investigational treatment. He completed 15 radiation treatments and then entered a period of recovery and close monitoring. 

"For a couple of months, everything looked good," Joe said. "My scans were clean, and I was getting stronger." 

But in February 2026, a routine scan showed new activity. A needle biopsy confirmed that the cancer had returned. 

Once again, Joe’s care team discussed options, including additional clinical trials. He proved to be an ideal candidate for a new trial available through Minnesota Oncology for patients with pancreatic cancer.  

Encouraging Results 

Today, Joe remains on the clinical trial and continues to see positive results. 

The trial combines standard chemotherapy at a lower dose with an investigational oral medication. He continues to receive infusions while taking oral medication for three days during each treatment cycle. 

"The treatment has been much more tolerable," said Joe.   

Even more encouraging has been the impact on his disease. 

When he started the trial, Joe’s cancer antigen levels were elevated and scans showed cancer growth. Since beginning treatment, his cancer antigen levels have returned to the normal range, and imaging has shown no significant progression. 

"My numbers came all the way down to normal," he said. "The scans continue to look good, and nothing new has shown up." 

While some very small areas remain visible on imaging, they have remained stable and have not grown. 

As long as the treatment continues to be effective, he can remain on the trial indefinitely. 

"We hope it continues for a long time," Joe said.  

A Strong Believer in Clinical Trials 

Joe’s experience has turned him into a strong advocate for clinical research. 

"I'm a big fan of clinical trials," he said. "People hear the word 'trial' and it can sound scary because it's something new. But these treatments have already been studied and tested." 

For Joe, the proof is in the results. 

"When you see the scans and bloodwork showing that it's working, that gives you confidence,” he said. 

He also appreciates that participating in research may help future cancer patients gain access to new treatment options. 

"Even though it's a trial, this is how treatments eventually become standard of care," Joe said. "It's good to know there are more options available to fight cancer." 

The Power of Team-Based Care 

Looking back on his journey, Joe credits the entire Minnesota Oncology team for helping him navigate what has been one of the most challenging periods of his life. 

"We had never dealt with an oncologist or cancer before," he said. "From our first appointment, the care has been outstanding. I can't say enough about Minnesota Oncology." 

While he is grateful for his physicians, he believes the support extends far beyond the exam room. 

“It’s everyone on the team – from nurses and physician assistants to schedulers, billing and support staff, everyone. Minnesota Oncology has been my mainstay throughout this entire journey. It truly feels like I have a team. That's what makes Minnesota Oncology so great." 

To learn more about the pancreatic cancer trials currently available at Minnesota Oncology, visit XXX. To see the full list of Minnesota Oncology clinical trials.