I’m Not Average: Pancreatic Cancer Survivor Who Defies the Odds

According to his doctor, Warren Littrel should have died several years ago. Instead, Warren recently celebrated his fifth anniversary of his diagnosis of stage IV pancreatic cancer. 

Before the diagnosis, Warren was active, ate the right things and took care of himself. He ran marathons and hiked mountains. He did everything you were supposed to do to remain healthy.

Warren’s prognosis was especially grim because he was not eligible for most treatments because of the stage and location of his tumor.  Without medical care he was given six to eight weeks to live. The most aggressive treatment option gave him a survival rate of just 14 months.

Five years later, Warren is thriving, thanks to innovations in cancer care. These pioneering treatments enable Warren to control his disease and to live a longer, healthier life.

Since his diagnosis, Warren has remained on the move. He practices yoga and takes aerobic classes, and runs a ceramics business with his wife and children in Tunisia that employs over 50 local artists. 

“I now take the time to appreciate the little things in life,” he said. “I’ve been fortunate that because of my treatment, I’ve been able to maintain a somewhat normal life, and this is what I’m most grateful for.”

Warren’s story is part of PhRMA’s new campaign, I’m Not Average, featuring inspirational stories from individuals about the powerful impact that innovative cancer medicines have had on their lives.

For more information on the I’m Not Average campaign, please visit www.phrma.org/cancer.

Join the conversation about advances and innovations in cancer medicines using the hashtag #NotAverage.

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