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An Unexpected Diagnosis
“I rode my bike 20 miles a day—until the day I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.”
For Don Myrah, an active lifelong cyclist, the diagnosis came without warning. On April 1, 2022, sudden and severe abdominal pain brought him to the emergency department at Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center. What initially appeared to be appendicitis soon led to a far more serious evaluation.
After several weeks of testing and declining health, Don received a confirmed diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. He had lost weight, experienced muscle weakness, and struggled with appetite—making immediate treatment decisions especially challenging.
Learning About MRI-Guided Radiation Therapy
While recovering at home, Don read an article in the San José State University Alumni Magazine that introduced him to MRI-guided radiation therapy, also known as MRIdian SMART Therapy.
“That word—cancer—jumped off the page,” Don recalls. “The more I read, the more I felt I needed to explore this option.”
Don learned that MRI-guided radiation allows clinicians to visualize tumors in real time and adjust treatment delivery to minimize radiation exposure to surrounding organs. For cancers like pancreatic cancer—located near critical structures—this precision can be especially meaningful.
Finding the Right Care Team
Don’s search for a provider offering MRI-guided radiation led him to Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center in Walnut Creek, California, where he met Dr. Kenneth Chao, Director of Radiation Oncology.
“Dr. Chao took the time to explain everything,” Don says. “I didn’t feel rushed, and my questions were answered clearly.”
Within days of his consultation, Don began treatment. His plan included five MRI-guided radiation sessions delivered over three weeks, tailored to his condition and overall health.
A Patient’s Experience With Treatment
According to Don, the treatment process was efficient and manageable.
“After the first session, I felt something I hadn’t felt in weeks—hope,” he says.
Don reports completing therapy in early 2023 without experiencing side effects that interfered with daily life. While every patient’s experience is different, Don describes the treatment as a turning point in his care journey.
Looking Forward
Today, Don focuses on recovery and returning to the activities he loves.
“My goal is to get back on my bike and hit that 20-mile mark again,” he says.
His story reflects how advances in cancer treatment technology may offer additional options for some patients—while reinforcing the importance of individualized care and shared decision-making.
When to Talk With a Cancer Specialist
Patients facing a pancreatic cancer diagnosis may benefit from discussing all available treatment options, including whether advanced radiation technologies are appropriate for their specific case.
A cancer care team can help evaluate:
- Cancer stage and location
- Overall health and treatment goals
- Potential benefits and risks of available therapies
How Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center Can Help
At Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, patients have access to multidisciplinary cancer care, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and supportive services.
To learn more or request a consultation, visit bassmedicalgroup.com or contact the cancer center directly.
