Beating the odds: Steven Merlin’s journey through pancreatic cancer and clinical trials- Ecog-Acrin

When Steven Merlin was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2012, at age 55, his doctors did not give him much cause for hope. They recommended therapy focused on managing symptoms rather than aggressive treatment, despite his otherwise excellent health. A cure was out of the question: with its 12.8% five-year survival rate, this disease is one of the deadliest types of cancer. Yet eventually, Steven convinced his doctors to opt for the more intensive treatment plan—and later, a clinical trial.

“I told them, I have plenty to live for and nothing to die for,” Steven said. “Reluctantly, they agreed. I could tell they thought it wouldn’t make a difference, but I surprised everybody.”

Today, 13 years later, Steven is considered cured, though he still takes maintenance treatment every day. Thanks to advances in precision medicine—and Steven’s talent for self-advocacy—he beat the odds. Now, he focuses on giving back through research advocacy, as a member of ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group’s (ECOG-ACRIN) Cancer Research Advocates Committee. He also helps other patients with cancer of the pancreas. This November, in honor of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, we highlight Steven’s story.

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