Pancreatic Cancer Support & Resources in Wisconsin

A pancreatic cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Wisconsin offers specialized centers and support networks.

Major Cancer Centers (NCI-Designated / High-Volume)

• UW Carbone Cancer Center (Madison): NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Multidisciplinary pancreas clinic, clinical trials, genetics, survivorship. [phone].
• Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin (Milwaukee): NCI-designated. Pancreas Cancer Program, Whipple expertise, trials. [phone].
• Gundersen Health System (La Crosse): Commission on Cancer accredited. Regional referral.
• Marshfield Clinic Health System: Multi-site oncology, pancreas tumor board.

Support Organizations

• Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN): Patient Central (1-877-272-6226) – free case managers, clinical trial finder, support groups (virtual & WI-based), financial resources.
• Cancer Support Community Wisconsin (Gilda's Club): Madison, Milwaukee, statewide virtual – support groups, education, wellness programs.
• American Cancer Society WI: Lodging (Hope Lodge Milwaukee), rides (Road to Recovery), 24/7 helpline 1-800-227-2345.
• Wisconsin Cancer Collaborative: Resource directory by county.

Key Steps After Diagnosis

1. Seek a pancreas-specialized multidisciplinary team (surgical, medical, radiation oncology, genetics, nutrition, palliative care).
2. Ask about germline genetic testing (BRCA, PALB2, ATM, etc.)—guides treatment (PARP inhibitors) and family screening.
3. Explore clinical trials early (PanCAN trial finder, center-specific).
4. Engage palliative care at diagnosis for symptom/QoL optimization—proven to improve survival in pancreatic cancer.

You are not alone. Wisconsin has expert care and compassionate support.