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But doctors think Margaret's cancer had been caught early so she underwent what is called a Whipple procedure three days ago.

"For a significant minority Whipple procedure can be curative. That's why we put patients through such complex surgery," adds Mr Nasralla.

His wife, Gwen Whipple, a fellow teacher, drew him to her native Minnesota, where he taught social studies and geography and coached American football.

He later honeymooned in the country with wife Gwen Whipple and also organised summer educational trips to China for US students.

Pally is Wade Whipple, a not-so-bright deputy sheriff.