An Answer to the Fluid Question

Some people had asked what caused the fluid build up in Joe's belly (a total of 4 liters was removed).  I emailed our oncologist at Duke, Dr. Zafar,  last night (he is undoubtedly the best...both doctor and caring human) and he emailed me back within 30 minutes and it was late when I sent the email.  His response: "The most common reason for the fluid is the cancer — it can cause fluid shifts in the body. It doesn't mean that the cancer is growing—it's just a common finding, especially with pancreatic cancer".  So we will just have to be vigilant for signs of more fluid.  Now that he has a history, it will be something they routinely check for.