My friend and former colleague, Jim Fagin, recently got that diagnosis. It really made me sad, until I got a chance to talk to Jim. He may be down but don't count him out. He has a lot to live for -- a loving wife, great kids and life is even sweeter with a new grandson!

In a way, Jim is lucky. Yes, lucky. He can be treated right here in Omaha.

One of the medical leaders in this country, UNMC, is located in our own back yard. UNMC has six physicians who are experts in the treatment of pancreatic cancer and performing the Whipple procedure, the premier treatment for the type of pancreatic cancer that Jim has.

We should be very proud to know that we have such a standout medical center here. Researchers at UNMC also were given a very prestigious award. Millions of dollars in grant money from the National Cancer Institute will go to their efforts in eventually developing a blood test for pancreatic cancer. That's huge! Right now, there are no screening tools for this cancer. The money will also be used to improve treatment for pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is not common but doctors at UNMC do about 50 procedures a year. And when it comes to success rate with the Whipple procedure, it's best to be treated at a facility like UNMC where a lot of these procedures are done.

The Whipple procedure is not an easy fix. It will take from five to eight hours to complete. Then, Jim will face a long recovery -- a recovery that can be very painful. But what's important for Jim and others with this diagnosis: pancreatic cancer is survivable!