Real Life Stories
In this section you will find real life stories from people affected by pancreatic cancer. These stories provide examples of how people are diagnosed, the treatment they have, their experiences and how they take care of themselves.
Natalie & Rosemarie
Natalie’s mum, Rosemarie, struggled to get a diagnosis for her symptoms. Sadly, her cancer was advanced by the time she was diagnosed, and Rosemarie passed away nine weeks later, shortly after her 52nd wedding anniversary. Natalie talks about her determination to raise awareness of the symptoms.
Amy & Eurico
Amy's Dad, Eurico, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2023. He died in May 2024. Amy reflects on how quickly everything happened and the challenges of processing it all. She talks about her daughter remembering her Avô (grandad in Portugese), and her baby son getting the middle name of Eurico.
Georgia & Leon
Georgia’s husband Leon was 51 when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He sadly died two years after first noticing symptoms. Georgia talks about the difficulties they faced and advocating for Leon to get the care he needed. She also remembers the wonderful support their young family had from the hospice towards the end of Leon’s life.
Emma and Martyn
Emma’s Dad, Martyn, was the light in every room. Loving, kind, a karaoke connoisseur, with a laugh you could hear for miles. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 2024 and died shortly after in October aged 73. Emma reflects on the heartbreaking diagnosis, journey of many twists and the place her Dad will always hold in her life and heart.
Alice
Alice began to feel unwell while on holiday in July 2023. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and has since had chemotherapy and surgery. Alice is now back at the gym, gaining weight and looking forward to the future.
StuartB
Stuart was 63 when he was diagnosed with a tumour at the head of his pancreas. After a success Whipple's procedure and chemotherapy, Stuart has been able to get back to travelling and enjoying life. He reflects on his experience of the diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Christine
Christine was 56 when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She shares her experience of this diagnosis and her subsequent treatment. Christine also reflects on the satisfaction she's felt since developing a passion for art, a hobby that she started after her diagnosis.
Jade & Tracey
Jade’s mum, Tracey, was 55 when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, which had spread to her liver and lungs. She sadly died just three months after her diagnosis. Jade talks about the support they got from a local hospice, and how she has coped with the loss of her mum.
Kirsty & Susan
Kirsty’s mum Susan was living abroad when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She returned to the UK to spend time with her family before starting treatment. Sadly, Susan died before any treatment could start, 15 days after her diagnosis. She was 62. Kirsty reflects on their shock at her mum’s diagnosis and death, and her determination to live life to the full.
Amy & Rosalind
Rosalind, a retired community nurse, was about to start a new chapter in her life when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She moved in with her youngest daughter, Amy, so the family could support her. A year on from Rosalind’s death, Amy now tells their story.
Katie & Fiona
Katie's mum, Fiona, was the life and soul of the party who always put her family's needs first. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in April 2023 and sadly died later that summer. Katie reflects on the difficult time she and her family have faced and her mum's legacy.
Clara & Jim
Clara’s dad, Jim, was a folk singer and a volunteer in a hospice for people with cancer. In 2020 he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and sadly died in the hospice two years later. Clara tells us about her dad’s experience.