12/09/2025
Early detection can save lives.
After three bouts of pancreatitis over the last eight years, 37-year-old Chesterfield mom Brenda Minor took matters into her own hands. That determination led her to a specialized screening program at Richmond Gastroenterology Associates that may have saved her life.
Dr. Matthew Fasullo launched the High-Risk Pancreas Center at Richmond Gastroenterology Associates, part of HCA Virginia Health System, last year. It’s the only program in the region that specializes in early pancreatic cancer detection.
After the screening, Brenda was diagnosed with a pre-cancerous lesion on her pancreas. Soon after, the tumor was successfully removed at Johnston-Willis Hospital, part of Chippenham & Johnston-Willis Hospitals.
“It’s a blessing. If they hadn’t caught that this early, it could be completely different,” Brenda said. “My outcome could be completely different. I’m grateful for every day that someone took to take the extra step to check on my health. But also, it shows the power of advocating for yourself.”
Watch this video, courtesy of ABC 8News - WRIC, to learn more about Brenda’s story: https://bit.ly/3Ylay04