Hi Wanda,
I also had the Whipple performed in New Orleans by Dr Bolton on 12-16-2005 and I am still here. I was 68 at the time and some 27 plus months later I am doing ok. I also had the rash around the feeding tube area for some time but it finally went away and has not caused any problem. The hole (indention) is still there to remind me. The summary of my Whipple is listed below.
Ampulla of Vater Carcinoma
Whipple Procedure 12-16-2005
Tumor Staging: pT2 pNO pMX
Moderately differentiated invasive Adenocarcinoma of Ampulla of Vater, 3.0 CM Tumor Invading but not through Muscularis Propria
Two Oncologist stated no benefit would be gained with Chemo or Radiation so none was performed
I was in the hospital for nine days and had some setbacks until February 9, 2006 (feeding tube was removed) and I have not looked back since. Since I did not have any Chemo I am unable to answer any questions on that subject. If I can provide any other information just ask. I am from Mississippi, some 70 miles east of New Orleans.
I wish you well. I know that God healed me.
Ken