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.
Mark D
Mark was 52 when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Following successful Whipple’s surgery and chemotherapy he’s back to work and enjoying life.
Steve C
Steve, 60, found out he had stage 2 pancreatic cancer by chance in 2023. He reflects on the care and support he has had, the symptoms and side effects of treatment, and the emotional impact on him and his family.
Laura, Amy & Debbie
Debbie was 64 when she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Her daughter Laura and Laura’s partner, Amy, reflect on making memories with Debbie before she passed away, 10 weeks after diagnosis.
Alicia & Dave
Alicia writes in memory of her dad, Dave, who passed away just 21 days after being diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer, aged only 57. Alicia shares her special memories of how her dad was able to be part of her wedding day, and being there for him at the end of his life.
Gary & Maggie
Gary’s mum, Maggie, started to get symptoms so her family took her to the hospital for tests. They were devastated to learn she had pancreatic cancer which had spread to the liver and lungs. Four years after Maggie passed away at 58 years old, Gary reflects on the impact on their family.
Coral
Coral was diagnosed in 2020 with pancreatic cancer, she was 76 years old. She had a Whipple's procedure but wasn't well enough for chemotherapy. Coral shares her story.
Chris & Chris
Chris was full of life kind and had a tremendous sense of humour. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in November 2021. His son, also Chris, shares their story.
Andy & Joanne
Andy, a husband, father of two and keen cyclist, was 44 years old when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. His wife, Joanne, shares their story and talks about making memories before Andy passed away in August 2023.
Anastasia & Alex
Anastasia and her family were forced to leave their home due to the war in Ukraine in 2022, while her husband Alex was still being monitored after surgery for pancreatic cancer. Sadly, the cancer came back and spread, and Alex is now having chemotherapy in the UK.
Mary
Mary, 67, was walking home from work in October 2020 when she was struck with extreme tiredness. Within two days, she was given a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and told she had been diagnosed early enough for surgery.
Nicola & Alan
Nicola’s dad, Alan, had several symptoms of pancreatic cancer before being diagnosed in 2019. He sadly passed away in 2022. Nicola tells their story.
Pippa
Pippa was diagnosed with a pancreatic cyst in 2010. It was monitored for many years. When changes were spotted, Pippa had surgery and is now recovering well.