My father is 72 years old and had the Whipple Procedure on April 21, 2008. His surgeon, Dr. Larry Postier, removed a tumor from the head of his pancreas. At this point, we are still waiting on the pathology report to find out if the tumor is cancer. It's been a week since his surgery.
His recovery has been amazing. He stayed in ICU for three days and then moved to a private room. By the third day, he was walking laps in the ICU unit and continues to walk the hospital halls daily. On the 4th day he began eating jello and broth and on the 5th day he started eating solids with no problems.
The jaundice has mostly cleared and his energy level comes and goes. He says his pain level is a 4 out of 10 and only comes and goes with straining.
The key was having a good surgeon and lots of prayer. We hope he continues to heal quickly and that the pathology report is good. So far, we're more than happy and amazed that someone of his age is healing this well.