WVU Cancer Institute celebrates survivors of pancreatic cancer, highlights patient care

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Mick Price is a coach who appreciates a strong game plan. As head coach of the Ravenswood High School Red Devils boys’ basketball team, Price’s approach to the game is methodical. To be successful, you need to focus on good communication, know your competition, and prepare by watching game films. 

So, when an MRI discovered a cancerous tumor on his pancreas, the hall of fame basketball coach and his family quickly went to work formulating a treatment plan.  

That plan involved Brian Boone, M.D., surgical oncologist, and a team from the WVU Cancer Institute Department of Surgical Oncology. Using a coordinated approach to Price’s care, Dr. Boone and his colleagues were able to remove the tumor and get Price ready to return to the basketball court to coach his Red Devils. 

“There are so many similarities to how I approach coaching and how Dr. Boone approached my cancer,” Price said. “He scouted the best course of care for me, he communicated the game plan with me, and he had a team in place to execute that plan. The entire team was on the same page and understood the plan. They treated me like I was more than just a patient.” 

Price, who recently shared his story with other survivors, families, and healthcare professionals during the WVU Cancer Institute’s annual Pancreatic Cancer Awareness and Survivor Luncheon, said remaining positive is essential. He encouraged others to do the same and to surround themselves with a strong support system from family and friends.  

Three of Price’s daughters are nurses at WVU Medicine, and although none of them work in cancer-related areas, they were active in assisting their dad through his treatment.  

The Price family was impressed by the level of care they received. From contacting his other healthcare providers to the coordination of his scans and treatment, Price’s care team took a collaborative, step-by-step approach to his care. For that, Price and his family are grateful.  

“It’s important to know about your cancer. Read up on it. Do your research,” Price said. “Dr. Boone and his entire team made me feel comfortable, put me at ease, and because of the continuity of care, it took the stress off me. It felt good to know I was in good hands.” 

According to Boone, hearing from patients like Price further reinforces the WVU Cancer Institute’s vision and goal to advance the treatment of pancreatic cancer and enhance outcomes for patients.  

“His coaching mentality, including his positive mindset and determination, are something we can all learn from when addressing challenges,” he said. 

The WVU Cancer Institute is recognized as a world-class provider of pancreatic cancer care for its advancements in this field, including the use of robotics in surgical and gastrointestinal care.  

“I’m incredibly proud of the work our team is doing to address cancer and enhance patient care,” Hannah Hazard-Jenkins, M.D., executive chair and director of the WVU Cancer Institute, said.  

“Our healthcare providers are trained in some of the most advanced medical procedures in the world. There is extraordinary scientific research taking place right here in West Virginia. Through outreach and education, we are helping our citizens better understand cancer and the options available to them. Together, we can deliver better care to our patients, like Mick Price, who need and deserve it.” 

For more information on the WVU Cancer Institute, visit WVUMedicine.org/Cancer.