Back in 2013, Michelle Kirlew was caught up in the usual daily rush when she received her diagnosis: pancreatic ductal cancer. A more rare and particularly aggressive form of pancreatic cancer, Michelle braced herself for the worst. Michael, Michelle’s husband and a Sergeant First Class in the Army, was deploying to Afghanistan, but was recalled so he could be by his wife’s side.
While the journey toward healing has been bumpy, Michelle maintains an upbeat approach and prefers to look at the positive. “The support has been amazing,” she says, referring the vast network of friends, family and military family that have stepped up to help her and her husband and three kids.
After dozens of treatments, she’s realistic about what the future may hold. This is why she’s committed to living in the moment and conquering cancer in her own way — she says she will win at cancer by living her life to the fullest. Michelle Kirlew is truly winning by living.
Following the broadcast, at 6:30 p.m., Arizona Illustrated host Tom McNamara will moderate a live panel discussion with experts who will discuss resources for newly diagnosed cancer patients and their families.
Patient navigators and professionals from Arizona Oncology, the UA Cancer Center, Tucson Medical Center and the American Cancer Society will take calls from the public to address non-medical questions concerning local resources for newly diagnosed cancer patients. Phone lines will be open from 6 to 8:00 p.m.
Click here for information on resources available to cancer patients in Southern Arizona
Winning by Living: One Cancer Story, Sunday at 6 p.m. on PBS 6.
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